about us
23 years ago Minnie ‘Ouma’ van Vrede founded the organisation after a friend had a vision that they were meant to start a charity.Ouma and her late husband began organising Homecells and handing out food parcels she had secured for the group McCain factory. With this small foundation they began to grow Samaritaan Huis.
When Mari van Vrede joined the organisation she noticed a high dropout rate in the communities primary school children, after some investigation she learnt that the children were dropping out because they weren’t capable of keeping up in their education due to a lack of quality grade R and RR education. Using her experience as a school teacher she opened the Samaritaan Huis Learning Academy now known as Wee Ones Learning Academy.
Mari's influence also spread to helping local animals in need, often buying them off abusive or negligent owners and providing them with a sanctuary in Sky Street.
Our core beliefs
1
Compassion in Action
We believe that love and empathy are as the core of our work. We are committed to showing kindness in everything we do, whether it’s providing warm meals, education, or a helping hand.
2
Community First
We see our community as one big family and actively want to create an environment where everyone has access to essential resources and education. Together, we can build a thriving, compassionate community.
3
Integrity and Impact
Guided by strong Christian values and the principles of integrity. We work tirelessly to uplift those in need, ensuring that every donation and partnership makes a meaningful difference.
OUR TEAM
MINNIE "OUMA"
Founder
MINNIE "OUMA"
Founder
With a rich background as a dental nurse, real estate agent, painter, and entrepreneur, Ouma's journey reflects her deep belief in people and the transformative power of kindness. Her passion drives change, inspiring those around her to believe in a brighter, more compassionate world.
MARI
MANAGER
MAri
MANAGER
When she joined the organisation, Mari channeled her compassion into rescuing animals and collaborating closely with the local SPCA. Her experience as a teacher, combined with witnessing the high dropout rate in the community and the trust neighbour's placed in her with their children, inspired her to establish the Learning Academy.
TRISTEN
ASSISTANT administrator
TRISTEN
Assistant administrator
As Ouma and Duane’s right-hand man, he helps to load and unload donations, distributes them to those in need, and step in for Duane when needed. He started his journey with Samaritaan Huis with his younger sister joining Wee Ones Learning Academy, since then he has become apart of the family.
RINKIE
The Caretaker
RINKIE
THE CARETAKER
Rinkie’s journey began with the feeding program she now helps support. Living in an informal settlement with her grandchildren, she would walk kilometres to receive food parcels. After consistent visits, Ouma recognised her dedication and offered her a job as the general cleaner.
Duane
Administrative Manager
What began as a call to help with deliveries quickly evolved into much more. Today, Dwayne is not only the driver but also the administrator, handling all business documents, meeting with stakeholders, managing Facebook and WhatsApp, and even repairing donated goods.
DUANE
ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER
Mariske
Social Media Manager
Mariske
Social Media Manager
Mari’s daughter and the third generation to work with Samaritaan Huis, began helping out in high school, sorting donated goods alongside her mother. Mariske runs the organisations social media (Facebook and WhatsApp), infusing a fresh, youthful perspective.
let's show you what we mean
