As the world marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June, the spotlight turned to 75-year-old Sandra Dlamini, a Northern Cape pensioner whose unwavering dedication to helping the vulnerable has become a beacon of hope in her impoverished community.
Despite no formal funding, Dlamini and her husband have run the JLV House of Safety, a non-profit organization (NPO), since 2012, assisting the homeless, sick, disabled, and unemployed in Longlands, an area plagued by poverty, substance abuse, and broken families.
A Lifeline for the Forgotten
Using her old-age pension grant and occasional donations from Good Samaritans, Dlamini has transformed an abandoned school building into a sanctuary. Though the structure lacks running water and electricity, it provides shelter, meals, and skills training—including sewing and stonework—to those in desperate need.
“I’m struggling to get sponsors for my shelter, where I keep disabled people, sick people, and the homeless,” Dlamini pleaded. “I ask the government and individuals to assist us in Longlands because we are a very poor community.”
Among those she has helped is 49-year-old Lechakanyane Sothwane, who arrived in 2012 battling arthritis and unable to care for himself. “When I came here, I had no help at home. Now, I’ve learned skills and can support myself,” he shared.
Community Support Amid Struggle
Local volunteers have rallied behind Dlamini’s mission. One helper, who assists with feeding programs, said, “I love what she’s doing. In winter, she makes soup for those waiting long hours at the clinic. God has blessed her heart.”
Others, including dance instructors and artists, have joined in, offering skills training to keep children off the streets. “Whenever there are activities for children or Mandela Day, I want to be there for the needy,” said one supporter.
While the Northern Cape Health and Social Development Departments have provided some assistance, Dlamini stresses the need for more coordinated efforts from government and private sectors to sustain her work.
A Call to Action
As World Elder Abuse Awareness Day highlights the plight of vulnerable seniors, Dlamini’s story stands as a powerful reminder of resilience and compassion—and the urgent need for greater support for grassroots changemakers.
“We must work together to help the downtrodden,” she urged.
For now, this 75-year-old hero continues her mission—one life at a time.
