The idea was started as a way for female-headed households to earn income to support their families. The crochet bears were to be given to children with rare diseases.
Johannesburg, South Africa – There are the cutest teddy bears being made locally which not only create jobs but also much-needed awareness for Rare Diseases South Africa.
Rare Bears was created to teach disadvantaged ladies from Kya Sands how to crochet and have them make ‘Rare Bears’ which the NGO Rare Diseases South Africa would then buy and distribute to their patients. Not only would kids with rare diseases get a unique, made for them with love, hand made bear, but it would also empower women, teach skills and allow them to help support their families.
It started in March 2015 with nine ladies…and has grown to 50 ladies crocheting and creating the most beautiful Rare Bears.
The Rare Bear Project is all about supporting their community. From providing support to our Rare families to creating jobs and income-generating opportunities to the woman of Kya Sands. 100% of our income goes straight back into this project.
Megan Toni Hunter has joined Brent Lindeque in the studio to chat more about the incredible project, and Rare Diseases in South Africa!
Listen to the full show below:
The Rare Bears can be purchased as a personal item which is directly shipped or as a donation. The donation means someone on their rare disease database receives a special animal of your choosing; it’s donated to them in your name.