The Rare Bear Project

The Rare Bear Project The Project is an initiative by Rare Diseases South Africa. Our crochet bears are all hand-crafted. We wanted BEARS that were RARE.

For Rare Diseases South Africa's second birthday, we launched the RareBear Project. We decided that we wanted to commission bears for our paediatric patients so that they could have a friend that was all theirs to be with them through the Journey of survivial. BUT, we didnt want perfect bears, or for our bears to all be the same. So, we engaged with our the ladies living in our local township, Kya

Sands.

4 months later, we had our first 20 bears. The ladies who create our bears get to decide what they look like, their colour, their unique features etc. These ladies are also earning an income from making these bears, allowing Rare Diseases SA the oppurtunity to give back to our community. The bears are not perfect, but that was the point. Some have longer arms than others, one ear may be bigger than the other, they are all UNIQUE, just like RARE WARRIORS. They are also all made with love. Our first bears are Giraffes, and today, we have 7 animals in the range. Ironically, a group of Giraffes are called a Journey. If you would like to donate a bear, you can at a cost of only R180. Or you can get one of your own through our online store at www.rarebearproject.org for R200.00. Please note that all donated bears will be sent directly to the patient. The name of the Donor will be indicated on the Rare Bear's nametag.

07/09/2026

🌸 As the season changes, we're looking to bloom in new spaces! 🧸

We're on the lookout for upcoming markets, fairs, and community events in Johannesburg and Cape Town where our Rare Bears can shine, spread awareness, and find new homes.

If you know of any markets looking for vendors in the coming months, we'd love to hear from you.

Drop a comment, send us a message, or tag an event below.

Let's help our Rare Bears bloom this spring. 💙🦓

Meet Anna and one of our beloved rear bear, Thingo.✨A little reminder that our Rare Bears Sale is still on! 💜Buy any 3 R...
02/09/2026

Meet Anna and one of our beloved rear bear, Thingo.✨

A little reminder that our Rare Bears Sale is still on! 💜

Buy any 3 Rare Bears and get your 4th item FREE. Every bear purchased helps create opportunities for the talented women behind the Rare Bear Project while supporting awareness and advocacy for the rare disease community.

Shop your favorites today: www.rarebearproject.org

Reminder: Our Rare Bears Sale is Still On! 💜There's still time to grab your favourites while supporting a meaningful cau...
31/08/2026

Reminder: Our Rare Bears Sale is Still On! 💜

There's still time to grab your favourites while supporting a meaningful cause.

✨ Buy any 3 Rare Bears and get your 4th item FREE! ✨

Every handcrafted bear helps create opportunities for the women behind the Rare Bear Project and supports the rare disease community.

Shop now: www.rarebearproject.org

Meet Zane the Zunicorn Zane is more than just a cuddly companion. Created through the Rare Bear Project and supported by...
24/08/2026

Meet Zane the Zunicorn

Zane is more than just a cuddly companion. Created through the Rare Bear Project and supported by our friends at TELL, Zane carries an important message about kindness, inclusion, and organ donation.

With a zebra-striped leg and a heart full of courage, Zane reminds us that being different is something to celebrate. Through storytelling and conversation, Zane helps children and adults alike learn about acceptance while inspiring hope and understanding.

A special thank you to TELL for trusting the Rear Bear Project to share Zane's story.💙

Some friendships become part of the Rare Bear family.Today we're celebrating Paul Schwedinger, whose ongoing support, ki...
20/08/2026

Some friendships become part of the Rare Bear family.

Today we're celebrating Paul Schwedinger, whose ongoing support, kindness, and vibrant spirit have made a lasting impact on our community. Seeing moments like this with his son is a beautiful reminder of what Rare Bears is all about: connection, compassion, and creating meaningful memories.

Thank you, Paul, for being such a valued part of our journey.

Throwing it back to this adorable personalised Rare Bear! 🐘✨Custom projects like these are always a highlight for our te...
17/08/2026

Throwing it back to this adorable personalised Rare Bear! 🐘✨

Custom projects like these are always a highlight for our team. They challenge us to think creatively, celebrate individuality, and create something truly unique for our clients.
Looking back, we're reminded how valuable these opportunities are in helping us grow while making meaningful connections through every creation.

What's the most special personalised item you've ever received? 💙

12/08/2026

It all started with one idea: to make a difference.
Rare, unique, and made with love.

Rare Bears are symbols of hope, companionship, and the power of community coming together to support those facing extraordinary challenges.🩵

09/08/2026

Happy Women's Day🩵

Celebrating the extraordinary women who fill our community with strength, compassion, and hope. Thank you for all that you do.

Today, we celebrate you.✨

A beautiful reminder that kindness has the power to inspire. 💙During our time at Pont de Val, Noms delivered an imprompt...
05/08/2026

A beautiful reminder that kindness has the power to inspire. 💙

During our time at Pont de Val, Noms delivered an impromptu talk on kindness to a group of young ladies, sharing valuable lessons on compassion and community. Funds were also raised for the Rare Bear Project, helping us continue supporting the rare disease community.

Thank you to everyone who made the day so meaningful.🩵

Address

Kingfisher House, 39A Kingfisher Road, Fourways 2191
Sandton
2091

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