To care for, develop and enhance the quality of life,
with love and understanding from a dedicated staff,
persons with intellectual disability of all races and creeds entrusted to us,
by providing with trust in Divine Providence
and in cooperation with the parents, the community and the State
the necessary spiritual, nursing, therapy and stimulation services
in as an efficient and economic manner as possible.
LITTLE EDEN is a registered non-profit organisation [001-827 NPO and PBO No.930/0000/03]
Respect ... Sanctity of Life ... and Love & Care.
Our core values are encapsulated in a series of symbols that guide the way the staff and volunteers at LITTLE EDEN respond to children and adults with intellectual disability; to each other as staff; to the environment; and to the larger community.
We believe in the sanctity of life – these special people are precious in the eyes of God and they have a right to be here and to be helped to reach their full potential despite their limitations.
We offer them love and care, provide for their needs, and protect them from harm.
Physiotherapy on the big gym ball
About us
At LITTLE EDEN, we believe that no matter how profoundly disabled a person may be, he or she is still a whole complete being, with a body; a mind; a spirit and a soul.
Our special children may not experience the world in the same way that we do, but they have so much to teach us!
From them we learn about the power of the human spirit, the joy to be found in simple achievements, the satisfaction of caring for those who are weaker than ourselves, love that seeks no reward.
How we care
Although the average age of our residents is 20 years, the average intellectual age is that of a one-year-old. Some function at newborn level and have to be fed, carried, changed and bathed.
Others are able to manage tasks like feeding themselves, brushing their teeth, dressing and using the toilet.
The children are grouped according to their abilities and behaviour. Many of our residents also suffer from mental illness, disturbed behaviour and multiple physical disabilities. They are cared for in specific groups where they feel comfortable and safe.
Therapy
Our children benefit from occupational, hydro-, physio- and music therapy, metamorphosis and reflexology. The Care and Stimulation Programme forms part of the daily activities at LITTLE EDEN.
The children also enjoy creative activities such as painting and singing, and playing with lego, puzzles and other educational toys. Horse-riding and other outdoor activites are part of life at Elvira Rota Village.
Who is eligible?
LITTLE EDEN caters for people with profound intellectual disability – those who are classified as uneducable – of all races and creeds. Priority is given to those who have been abandoned or abused, or who come from severely disadvantaged backgrounds.
Once accepted into the LITTLE EDEN family, they remain with us for life.
How much does it cost?
The subsidized cost of caring is R3200, the full cost before government subsidy is R6000 per month. This includes 24-hour nursing care, specialised therapy, medical, food and clothing. Any contribution towards this cost is greatly appreciated!