When Aristea Home for the Elderly recently put out a call for help with toiletries for their frail care section, The One Percent Movement community stepped up without hesitation.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of Ruan, Elsabé and Gielie Uys, as well as George and Sean Berry, we were able to purchase a much-needed supply of facial tissues, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, wet wipes, deodorant and body lotion. These everyday essentials will go a long way in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of the Aristea community.

The donation was received by Sister Ina Koeglenberg and Staff Nurse Sonja Stander, who expressed their sincere gratitude. They shared just how vital these items are, yet how difficult they can be to provide consistently. Something as simple as toothpaste, soap or deodorant is easy to take for granted, but for many elderly residents, these basic necessities are essential to maintaining dignity, comfort and quality of life.

We were once again struck by the extraordinary care shown by the Aristea team. The residents are clearly cherished and treated with compassion, respect and kindness every day. It is evident that the staff work tirelessly to create a safe, welcoming environment where residents are cared for with genuine love and dedication.

While visiting, we also took the opportunity to stroll through the garden and admire the progress being made. Pieter and his team from De Smit Strukture have worked wonders. The space is lush, inviting and full of life, and the nursing staff shared that many residents enjoy spending time outdoors, whether sitting quietly among the plants or taking gentle walks through the garden.

Best of all, our Reflection Corner has become exactly what we hoped it would be. Complete with its beautiful fountain, built by Pieter and his team and hand-painted by artist, Alani Nel, it has become a favourite spot for residents to sit, reflect and enjoy a moment of peace.

Thank you to every donor who continues to make projects like these possible. Together, one small act of kindness at a time, we are helping create dignity, comfort and connection where it is needed most.

Sister Ina Koeglenberg, Staff Nurse Sonja Stander and Juanita (The Once Percent Movement).

Left: Late 2024 - Work on the garden just started. Right: Today. WOW!!!

This stunning little section of the garden is right in front of the dining room, and is truly a lush wonderland!

Apart from the breathtaking fountain, there is so much beauty to be found in the garden. Just look at this "river" of succulents!

How you can help

Whether your 1% is R10 or R1000, it doesn’t matter - a culture of giving back is what counts. Our small team has learned that a little really goes a long way; most of our work is fuelled by elbow grease, creativity, and a keen desire to do good. Every bit of support helps us continue transforming lives, uplifting communities, and caring for the voiceless - both human and animal alike.

We welcome contributions of all kinds. You can support us by:

• Donations of any size – every rand counts!
• Non-perishable food, fresh veggies
• Plants/cuttings, and gardening supplies
• Clothes, knitwear, linen, homeware, furniture
• Sharing your skills – builders, gardeners, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, handymen (and women!)… we’ll happily put your talents to use.

When in doubt, just reach out and ask — there’s always a way to make a difference!

For monetary donations:

The One Percent Movement
FNB 62924632749 (Gold Business)
Branch: 250655
Swift code: FIRNZAJJ

DONATE NOW

If you would like more information on our current projects or want to get involved, please contact Juanita Berry:
juanita@essentiallynatural.co.za