Ordinary community members do extraordinary things: a happy home for the intellectually disabled
SUN VALLEY – Cluny Farm Centre residents enjoy their stay at the centre.
The Cluny Farm Centre is not just a place for adults with intellectual disabilities to live – it’s a place where they can build and lead a full life.
The centre is a non-profit organisation located near Sun Valley and first opened its doors back in 1962. Currently home to 44 adult residents aged 18 and older, it allows a safe, homely environment where each person has the chance to work according to his or her ability. Residents live in one of five houses spread across the property, each getting a bedroom to make their own, and spend their days participating in a number of activities and jobs in order to live a life with purpose.
“Residents here do light work around the farm, whether that be working in the dairy, the organic vegetable tunnel or even in the cooking bakery where they make cookies which we then sell,” explained Sharon Theron, the general manager of the centre. “They can learn skills, be empowered and feel a sense of belonging.
“This is a home away from home, a home for life.”
Residents come from across the country, some as far as Hoedspruit in Limpopo or the coastal areas, to enjoy a space that may be in the city but allows them to experience a farm life. Besides suitable employment, Cluny Farm and its 40 or so staff members encourage their charges to form a community, enjoy making social connections and even get involved in sports like golf or swimming.
The farm spans a large piece of land which includes a wetland area, and during the day residents can be found walking the dusty path between buildings. There are plenty of smiles for visitors, and one gets a sense that every effort is made to make the place feel as comfortable and homely as possible.
“Every resident has a job, and can take part in craft sessions such as knitting,” added Theron.
“Every few weeks they do a different rotation of work, and their work day starts at 8am. We eat lunch together in the hall at about midday and they finish their work day at 4pm.
“We want to help people grow to their full potential, everyone has something to add to the world and the ability to lead full lives.”
The residents that the Fourways Review met during a recent visit are friendly and kind. One gentleman, George Stathopoulos, has been a resident at Cluny for about 44 years. Another, Chantelle Erasmus, is originally from Boksburg and has lived here nine years and is a huge fan of sports, participating in soccer, golf and swimming among others and recently took part in the Special Olympics South Africa Swimming Gala (see Page 18 for more details).
In the craft room one talented lady shows off the multi-coloured scarf she is hand-knitting, and a walk to the organic vegetable garden allows this journalist to meet Bjorn Grant, a resident of 25 years who carefully tends to a number of crops such as cabbage, spinach and garlic.
“We want the public to be aware that people with intellectual disabilities can still lead wonderful lives,” explained Theron.
“Some even decide to work outside [the centre] and are more than capable of working life.”
She explained that help from the public is always more than welcome.
“Volunteers are so welcome, and you can help with fundraising, sporting events, transport or even just to give love and attention.
“Our golf coach left, and we’re looking for someone else, and hairdressers are always welcome. Otherwise, you can support what we do by buying our cookies or organic vegetables.”
Details: www.clunyfarm.co.za;
the Cluny Farm Centre Facebook page.
Related Article:
