A Visit to Bona Lesedi: Community, Care, and Cultivating Hope

At The Victorian Garden, we believe that true beauty extends far beyond skincare—it’s also found in how we show up for our communities. Recently, our team had the privilege of visiting Bona Lesedi Disabled Home, a care centre dedicated to supporting people living with disabilities. It was a visit that deeply moved us and reminded us just how much love, strength, and resilience exist in places often overlooked.

A Place of Shelter and Growth

Bona Lesedi provides a safe and nurturing home for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, currently caring for residents aged 7 to 60 (please refer to their website for the latest information). What stood out immediately was the warmth of the staff and the close-knit sense of community among the residents.

Though they face ongoing challenges, Bona Lesedi is working hard to build self-sustainability. They’ve set up a few greenhouses, allowing them to grow some of their own vegetables and herbs—a vital step toward food security and empowerment. While they had received training in agricultural practices some time ago, it hasn’t been renewed in recent years. Recognising this, The Victorian Garden has reached out to the original agricultural training team to explore the possibility of providing further support and refresher courses.

Priorities and Realities

The team at Bona Lesedi has done wonders with limited resources. Food remains their top priority, often taking precedence over other areas like entertainment or maintenance. As a result, their recreational spaces and leisure facilities are in need of care and renovation—something that would add immense value to the lives of the people living there.

Despite these constraints, there is so much love in this home. The staff care deeply. The residents, each with their own personality and story, are full of life. There's singing, laughter, and a powerful sense of community spirit.

How We Can All Help

Supporting facilities like Bona Lesedi doesn’t always require grand gestures. Here are some practical ways individuals, businesses, or organisations can contribute:

• Donate supplies – including food, hygiene items, or entertainment equipment like board games, musical instruments, or books.

• Sponsor a garden bed or greenhouse maintenance – help fund their sustainable food initiatives.

• Volunteer time or skills – whether you’re an artist, a musician, a gardener, or simply someone who wants to help, your time could make a world of difference.

• Support training efforts – especially in agriculture or other self-sufficiency skills.

• Spread the word – the more people know, the more support these homes can receive.

At Victorian Garden, we’re committed to doing our part, and we encourage our community to do the same—whether by getting involved with Bona Lesedi or finding similar organisations in need of support.

True care starts with kindness, and even the smallest act can grow into something life-changing.