Sarda set to hold open day in October

The South African Riding for the Disabled Association (Sarda) is holding its open day at its premises in Ruimsig on 19 October.

Sarda provides care for children and young adults who are mentally and physically disabled. The association gives disabled people the opportunity to experience therapeutic and recreational horse riding lessons which assist in improving mental, physical and social well-being. However, the lessons are costly and donor funds have decreased, and Sarda branch secretary Julia Morris said the association is currently experiencing financial difficulty.

The highveld branch of Sarda was established in 1984 and the centre is in Peter Road. It is affiliated to the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) in the United Kingdom and the Federation for Disabled Riding International.

“There is no regular funding. It costs us up to R40 000 to run the centre. About nine people arrive here per week and most of the people we treat cannot afford to pay. There is an estimated two million disabled people in South Africa currently,” Morris said.

She added should Sarda in Ruimsig have to close its doors, it would be difficult to relocate the level of knowledge already obtained by Sarda over the years.

The open day will take place on 19 October from 9am until 12pm. There will be a tea garden, tombola and various stalls.

Details: Sarda 011-958-5044 (between 8am and 12pm from Tuesdays to Fridays) or gauteng@sarda.co.za