Philanthropy in Focus - Saint Giles - a 'hand-up' for the disabled

Based in Durban, Saint Giles is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting persons with physical disabilities.

The organisation first launched in 1952, when founder Kerry Malt a journalist, who himself was physically challenged, began visiting the sick in hospitals and private homes. The concern he had for the disabled grew, and in 1962 Saint Giles took up offices at 4 Prince Street, South Beach, Durban – where you’ll find them to this day . . . 53 years later.

A large part of their work takes place in a one-of-a-kind remedial gym, where disabled people are encouraged, motivated and given special physical therapy to help them overcome their obstacles – free of charge.

Saint Giles also endeavours to provide employment at their work centre where 70 disabled, full-time employees sort, pack and assemble various goods for a list of corporate organisations. Student bursaries for needy, disabled youth are also available.

The organisation, currently steered by Managing Director, Terry Rennie, is constantly exploring new ways to make life a little easier for those living with disabilities.