Written by Nikki Otto: Freelance Writer, Photographer and Blogger
Photography supplied by Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch and Unsplash.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Month in October; we focus on being alone and look at solutions to alleviating those who feel the pangs of not having an exchange of love.
We’ve all experienced being alone. Nothing is more precious than having someone to love and care for through thick and thin. Small gestures count, like waking someone up with that special cup of coffee and in exchange doing something that they love.
Loneliness has been described as sadness because you don’t have friends or company or being in a place of isolation that’s unfrequented. The physical health and mental health consequences of being lonely are far-reaching.
The perfect mix waiting for a solution
Right now there are about 33% of adults worldwide who feel lonely. The United Nations Human Settlement Programme estimates there are about 100 million homeless people globally. In South Africa, Rescue Rehab reported that around a million companion animals are euthanised annually.
This story is about a few good people doing something for the less fortunate, where human beings and our furry besties benefit.
There’s a juxtaposition in Stellenbosch, in the Western Cape, where the more fortunate find it hard to ignore homeless people who are struggling to find work and have nowhere to go. Some have resorted to hustling to pay for their accommodation at the Night Shelter, and word quickly spreads among their circles who is kind and compassionate.
Charl Reyneke’s sustainable initiative, HeartFlow, was fuelled by his feeling uncomfortable when a homeless person pleaded for money and he was unwilling to become an enabler. His plan was to establish a coupon system where residents could purchase tickets that would pay for a night’s stay at the shelter with the support of local business owners. Charl is the unsung hero if there ever was one.
One couple from Nigeria, Pastor John Stanley and his wife, Grace, have gone the extra mile for those who are vulnerable and whom society has deemed less worthy. Prayer and sharing the Word of God take precedence over sandwiches, rusks and fine coffee served to those who’ve survived the night outside and those who trickle in from the Night Shelter on Friday mornings.
For Sunday’s visit to the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch, where homeless volunteers will receive coupons for a night’s stay at Tennant Street’s Stellenbosch Night Shelter, arrangements have been made for transportation to the Animal Welfare Society, about ten minutes outside the bustling city. A volunteer assists visitors with dog walks every day and welcomes you with a dog leash before you enter the enclosures to choose your companion. And now it’s time for freedom, tails in the air with happy chirping from their leaders. Everyone’s smiling.
The Pet Effect
It’s official, pets boost our well-being.
According to two studies, owning a pet reduces frailty and increases activity levels.
Pets reduce depression and anxiety.
In Australia, a study concluded that pets encourage social interaction.
Another study found that owning and caring for a pet increased the chances of recovering from cardiovascular events.
Tests have revealed that pets give us a sense of belonging.
Jessica Perrins, Head of Fundraising and Communications for Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch, is quick to credit HeartFlow for its initiative. I asked her a few questions.
What kind of feedback have you had?
The regular volunteers enjoy walking the dogs and have developed a bond with many of the dogs they walk frequently. It’s very fulfilling for the volunteers as they’re contributing to their community and not having to beg, which can be humiliating. The initiative is equally beneficial for the well-being of our dogs.
The vineyards that the dogs traverse through. Has a farmer permitted access?
Yes, we have permission to walk our dogs in the vineyards. The views and walk are incredible, to have our dogs in the countryside opposed to walking along the road.
How has this initiative contributed to rehoming the dogs at your welfare organisation?
The exposure by Heartflow and the Stellenbosch Municipality has reached far and wide, and new visitors now know that the shelter is in Devon Valley.
How would your organisation encourage other initiatives where all sentient beings benefit?
Making a difference is what we aim for each day, but the combined effort of many creates change and truly transforms the lives of sentient beings. The charity or giving of self establishes a deep sense of community and purpose. Our Mission: We recognise animals as living beings with the right to a good quality of life, which is what we strive for daily. We invite community members and encourage anyone passionate about the welfare and well-being of animals to join their winning team by becoming a volunteer, supporter, and donor.
There’s nothing like a refreshing dip after brisk exercise, fresh air, and interaction that involves the benefits of a rewarding exchange where kindness is the catalyst that boosts confidence, happiness, and optimism.
Clearly, love never fails.
