SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
NOAH SOCIAL ENTERPRISE is a transformative programme established in 2018 with a profound mission.
At NOAH, we firmly believe in the power of social enterprises to provide opportunities to individuals who have been previously denied such chances. Our core objective is to offer restitution to these beneficiaries by not only boosting their income but also nurturing their self-worth, positivity, hope, achievement, and overall success.
We understand that these higher-order needs are not just a luxury but an absolute necessity for a fulfilling and successful later stage of life.
By witnessing older adults actively participating in the economy through our initiatives, we aim to be a beacon of soft advocacy. We want to showcase the immense value and untapped potential of older individuals in society. This sends a strong, inspiring message to younger generations about the boundless possibilities and hope that accompany the aging process.
What truly sets NOAH apart is that our thriving social enterprises are not only a force for good but also contribute to our own long-term sustainability. The net profits generated by these enterprises play a pivotal role in subsidizing programs and projects that may otherwise be challenging to fundraise for.
However, the impact of NOAH goes beyond financial gains. The additional earnings generated by our program significantly enhance the quality of life for our Social Enterprise Development (SED) workers. This newfound financial flexibility grants them more choices and freedom in their lives, allowing them to prioritize healthy living and make meaningful contributions to their families.
In our latest assessment conducted in 2023, we found that an impressive 49% of all NOAH beneficiaries now earn incomes above the poverty line. This statistic underscores our commitment to creating positive and lasting change in the lives of those we serve.
Join us on our journey as we continue to empower individuals, break barriers, and create a future where everyone, regardless of age, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Impact
- Members self-manage thriving enterprises in Khayelitsha, Athlone and Woodstock
- Improved financial wellness among SED members
- Self-motivated and confident members implement fresh and innovative business ideas
- Communities have access to inexpensive quality goods including food, clothing and household items
2023 SED MEMBERS IN NUMBERS
Coffee, sandwiches and pastries – the NOAH Cafe does it all.
The NOAH Cafe is a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious sandwich at the Corner of Regent Street. The NOAH Cafe also stocks basic groceries and tuckshop items such as sweets, chips and cool drinks.
OPENING HOURS:
8am to 3pm, Monday to Friday
17 Regent Street, Woodstock
LOOKING TO HIRE NOAH CAFE AS A VENUE?
You’ll find everything you need at our Woodstock, Athlone and Khayelitsha second-hand shops!
With remarkable customer service, top fashion and great prices, Selling Seconds are the go-to shops for local communities. Whether you wish to donate pre-loved clothing and household goods or find a stylish and affordable new outfit, Selling Seconds is right for you.
WOODSTOCK
9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday
9am to 1pm, Saturday
19 Regent Street, Woodstock
KHAYELITSHA SITE B
9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday
9am to 1pm, Saturday
69 Jama Crescent Roads, Khayelitsha
KHAYELITSHA HARARE
9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday
9am to 1pm, Saturday
40 Phata CI Harare, Khayelitsha
ATHLONE
9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday
9am to 1pm, Saturday
26 Voel Street Belgravia, Athlone
Taking care of business
NOAH has been working in partnership with Taking Care of Business (TCB) for several years.
Along with TCB, Khayelitsha members sell overruns of new or returned retail items. These are high quality, brand new clothes from top high street fashion brands.
MORE INFORMATION AND ORDERS: orders@noah.org.za
NOAH SOAP: A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION
The NOAH Soap initiative was born in 2009 from the ingenuity of members of the NOAH Khayelitsha centre. Seeking additional income to supplement their state pensions, the group experimented with various crafts before discovering the potential of soap making. This low-cost, skill-friendly endeavour offered a promising avenue for generating income.
With the support of a small grant and training from a volunteer, the group embarked on their soap-making journey. Their initial efforts proved successful, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and impactful project.
From the outset, Charlotte Rhys, a luxury soap and bath products company, recognized the environmental benefits of recycling discarded soap. Committed to reducing landfill waste, Charlotte Rhys partnered with NOAH to repurpose hotel soap into elegant, new bars. Their support has been invaluable, providing training, guidance, and marketing assistance.
NOAH SOAP BAGS: A SUSTAINABLE GIFT
Complementing the soap-making initiative, NOAH elders in Khayelitsha hand-crochet 100% cotton loofah bags. These beautiful bags, filled with repurposed hotel soap set in new glycerine, offer a sustainable and eco-friendly gift option. By purchasing these soap bags, you not only support the livelihoods of the community members but also contribute to reducing landfill waste.
Join us in supporting NOAH Soap and making a positive impact on the environment and the lives of our community members.
THE LAUNDRY BAG PROJECT
Introducing the NOAH laundry bag: a stylish and eco-friendly accessory that supports our elders. This laundry bag is made from high-quality linen that we repurpose from various hotels, in partnership with Charlotte Rhys. By purchasing this laundry bag, you are not only getting a durable and elegant product, but also helping our NOAH elders earn additional income and maintain their independence. Our NOAH elders are passionate about crafting these beautiful laundry bags, and they would love to share their work with you. Order yours today and join us in making a difference in their lives.
MORE INFORMATION AND ORDERS: orders@noah.org.za
