49 years’ service to the Helderberg’s elderly

Sencit Resthaven Home for the Aged celebrated its 49th anniversary, a remarkable milestone of service to many of Strand’s elderly, last Thursday (27 March).

Pioneered by the Methodist church, the old-age home was officially opened by the then circuit superintendent, Reverend Joe Fourie, on 27 March 1976. He had negotiated the purchase of the property in Thomas Street, which was originally used by the Rusthof Methodist church for their Sunday school, youth gatherings and other activities, for an amount of R25 000.

At the recent celebration, precious stories were recalled about the early beginnings, including heart-wrenching tale of Isak and Sarah Malgas, the home’s first residents.

Ian Baard, a parishoner of the Rusthof congregation, was driving down Sir Lowry’s Pass in his taxi when he spotted the elderly couple on the side of the road with their bags. After many years of loyal service, they were dismissed from the farm where they had lived. Baard took them straight to Fourie, who housed them for the night and, the next day, accommodated them at what is today known as Sencit.

It was the love and care of the Sencit Resthaven community that restored the dignity and safety of the elderly Malgas couple, Fourie related.

Edith Fourie, who purchased the first building in which the home was situated, also mentioned the home’s significance as a community-based project.

Members of various local churches came together to support and help the facility grow, the passing years seeing remarkable changes.

Another pioneering Sencit Resthaven resident, “Oupa John”, who worked as a chef at various hotels, played a key part in helping to develop the home, enriching the community with his culinary talents. Not only did he care for his fellow residents, but he also actively fostered a spirit of togetherness and joy at the facility.

“While we celebrate the 49th anniversary of the home, we are also excited about the big 50th birthday celebration next year. We invite the [Strand and surrounding Helderberg] community to show their appreciation for Sencit.

Resthaven by contributing R50 – either as a once-off or monthly donation – to ensure the continued existence of the home. The home relies on donations and voluntary help to continue its mission of providing care and support to the elderly,” a statement from Sencit read.

The first matron of the home, Thelma February, performed her duties of love for the community for just R60 a month. Although residents contribute part of their pension to support the home, it is the ongoing donations and contributions that enable it to continue its mission of serving the elderly of Strand and surrounding areas.

“The opening of Sencit Resthaven in 1976 was just the beginning of a journey that has lasted decades,” the home stated. “[It] needs the continued support of the community to carry on its work. We therefore ask the community to join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Sencit and to support this important institution.”