Register now to become a member of the Pack for a Purpose community! Get Started »
×
Pack for a Purpose: Small Space. Little Effort. Big Impact.
Home • Destinations • Africa • South Africa
    Accommodation

    Samara Private Game Reserve

    Pack for a Purpose does not condone visiting orphanages, as this can often lead to negative impacts on children. The accommodation or tour company working with the orphanage will deliver the supplies in a coordinated and respectful way so that the children can benefit from them. Your generosity is not diminished because you do not interact with the children.

    Project #1

    Samara Wildlife Volunteer Program (a program designed to give people hands-on experience working on a game reserve) supports Vuyani Safe Haven in Graaff Reinet, a home of safety for children (from babies to teenagers) who have been removed from their homes or off the streets. We bring them out for environmental fun days at Samara, and go help out at the home with maintenance and homework.

    The Student Volunteer component of the program serves school children from disadvantaged communities who come and visit Samara as an outdoor classroom. They are taught about the environment and animals.

    Project #2

    Samara Volunteer Programme hosts an annual Christmas Party for the children of Vuyani Safe Haven. This year it will be on December 6th and all guest residents at Samara are invited to participate. We need presents to give to the disadvantaged children in order to provide them a Christmas that all children deserve.

    Project #3

    The SACT tracking academy, located in Samara, is run by one of only two Master trackers in South Africa. The tracker students observe and learn how to follow animals and interpret their behavior by the signs they leave behind. The tracker students, selected by the Peace Parks Foundation, come from rural areas throughout southern Africa.

    Project #4

    An Anti-Poaching initiative to help make a difference for our rhinos.

    Initiatives Supported

    Animal Welfare Child Welfare Education
    All the needs are current as of May 31, 2023
    Note: Location is approximated. If you see a lodging that is misplaced or missing, please contact us .

    Listed on this page are the specific needs requested by the community project(s) so you can choose exactly what to pack for a purpose and express your gratitude to the local community with the supplies you take them. If you prefer, you may reach out directly to them to inquire about items which may be available for purchase locally. Arranging visits to community projects is beyond the scope of our mission. If you wish to visit a project, contact the participant and they can let you know what is possible.

    Candy and balloons are not on the needs list as they are harmful for the children and the environment for the following reasons:
    • Few of the children benefiting from these projects have access to toothpaste, toothbrushes, or a dentist. The candy promotes cavities.
    • The balloons once they become deflated are a choking hazard for local wildlife.

    Instead of taking candy or balloons, use that space for additional requested supplies, as they are priceless.