Casa Caritas seeks public support for Samantha Gray’s care
For those who would like to contribute to Samantha's care, they can contact the home directly to discuss ideas or make a donation. Kriel can be reached on 072 107 1989 or ceo@casacaritas.org.za.
Casa Caritas, a home for mentally and physically disabled individuals, is appealing to the public for assistance to care for its residents, including 34-year-old Samantha Gray, who has been in their care since 2007.
According to Chantel Kriel, CEO of Casa Caritas, Samantha lives with multiple conditions, including Rett Syndrome, microcephalic, epilepsy, and brain damage.
“Samantha’s conditions leave her untrainable and fully reliant on 24-hour care, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and the use of diapers,” Kriel explained.
Despite her challenges, Samantha enjoys one-on-one interaction, being sung to, listening to music in the playroom, and spending time with her peers.
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For over a decade, Casa Caritas has relied on public donations to assist with Samantha’s care.
While her SASSA disability grant covers her monthly chronic medication and part of her nappies, significant expenses remain.
The home is seeking to raise R9 200 to cover Samantha’s nappy costs for a year, with her monthly nappy bill amounting to approximately R760.
She also requires toiletries and clothing, which the home provides from public donations. She wears a size small.
“If Samantha’s nappy costs could be covered for a full year, it would have a huge impact, relieving pressure on our monthly budget.
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It may even allow us to employ an additional caregiver, improving the quality of care for Samantha and our other residents,” Kriel said.
Kriel described Samantha as an easygoing young woman who is quiet and content.
“Samantha has an amazing smile, and her eyes show when she is happy. She enjoys having a peer beside her and responds to genuine engagement.
“Sitting with her and feeding her allows you to see how much she understands, more than what meets the eye,” Kriel added.
She stressed that all residents at Casa Caritas deserve to be loved, respected, and treated with dignity.
“Our residents only know the world within the boundaries of Casa Caritas. All they want is to be loved, just like anyone else.
“Donations for Samantha not only ensure she receives the care she needs, but also recognise her as a valued individual with a disability,” Kriel said.
Casa Caritas welcomes visitors to meet Samantha and the other residents.
Donations of any size can make a meaningful difference.To contribute to Samantha’s care or to support the home, contact Chantel Kriel on 072 107 1989 or via email at ceo@casacaritas.org.za.
