Astra Sheltered Employment

Our Range of Service:

Jewish Sheltered Employment Centre

The centre provides a comprehensive service to members of the community who have special needs. JSEC provides employment to 65 men and women who are unable to work on the open labour market. Workers are taught skills in a protective and supportive environment. This enhances their self-esteem and gives them the opportunity for social contact. The programme is recognised worldwide and is acknowledged as a leader in the field of mental disability.

The workers are directly involved in the production of goods which are in great demand. These include our well known wooden baby walkers, valet stands and toys, hand woven baby blankets and bridge cloths, beautiful patchwork dolls, pram sets, floor covers, hand painted fabrics and our ever popular oven gloves and kitchenware.

These products are sold to both the wholesale and retail trade.

Supported Employment – Workability

This is a supported employment service, assisting people with special needs to find employment on the open labour market. Ongoing support is offered to the client, the family and the employer.

The process involves assessment, work preparation, job coaching, job placement, counseling and support. Jobs available include protective workshop, contract work, supervised teamwork, volunteer positions and individual employment.

Group Homes – Rosecourt House, Vriende House and Rosecourt Terrace

Astra JSEC manages three Group Homes that are situated in close proximity to the Centre. They offer accommodation for ten, eight and seven residents respectively. They have the opportunity to live in this wonderful “home from home” environment with the care of their special House Parent, and participate in community activities.

Gift Service - Giftime

They provide a gift service which includes the packaging and delivery of gifts for all occasions. The products are sourced from the centre and other suppliers. Giftime relies on the services of volunteers.

Coffee Shop – Coffee Time

This offers training and employment opportunities in the field of catering. Public awareness impacted in the destigmatising of intellectual disability. Coffee Time is a very popular venue and is under the Beth Din.

Outreach

The Centre has formed relationships with organizations in the townships, working with the disabled from disadvantaged backgrounds, and is able to offer support and guidance to all groups.

Highlights:

- The organisation has continued to push back barriers to meaningful employment and independent living, showing again and again the human potential hidden beyond the disabilities.