Get your caffeine fix at Sarda

The community’s helping hand, the South African Riding for the Disabled Association (Sarda) is still in need.

Through equine therapy the association gives children a better life. They have nine horses and two donkeys dubbed equine therapists and provide their services to nine schools of which many children come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Julia Morris, fundraiser at the centre said it costs about R50 000 a month to keep the centre afloat so that these children who suffer from a variety of disabilities, among others cerebral palsy, down syndrome, autism and genetic disorders still will be able to get the specialised attention and the care they need.

Although they have sponsors who assist them on a monthly basis and their own fundraising endeavors, they are in constant need of other ongoing funding assistance.

Morris further said they also regularly need volunteers, who will be provided with the necessary training, to help them with their sessions with the children.

Barbara Carr, an instructor said they regularly see miracles happening in front of their eyes.

“There are children here who never really have spoken, but when they are on the horse they change completely. When they are told to thank the horse you see how they speak to them.”

She said those who volunteer are not just doing it to give something back but also use it as a personal fulfillment.

“When you see those faces lighting up and the smiles you know you are making a difference in the lives of these children.”

She joked and said you don’t even need a gym subscription.

“When you are here you get all the exercise you need.”

To see what Sarda is all about, a coffee morning themed ‘coffee and friends make the perfect blend’ will be taking place on 18 March at 125 Peter Road, Ruimsig. Booking is essential for catering purposes. Tickets to the event is R50 for adults and R25 for children.

For more information contact the office on 011 958 5044.