The Twin Palms community is calling on fellow Helderbergers to place their hearts in their pockets in support of a fundraising campaign initiated to help restore a damaged wall, which is crucial to safety and security in the Strand residential area.
The precast wall located along Palmiet Crescent was battered in a storm back in April, with 55 m of the 97 m long wall uprooted and blown over, and an additional 20 m structurally damaged.
According to a community member who turned to DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette with their plight, the devastation was not well received by residents. “The wall forms a crucial part in the safety and security of the community,” said Jan van Wyk, adding that concerned community members initially resorted to taking turns to guard the open section, which left them vulnerable to the elements. This, until the fundraising initiative was championed with hopes to replace the wall and reunify the community.
Van Wyk said the various role-players who have joined hands and have dedicated themselves to raising funds in aid of the project and creating community awareness are: Edwin le Roux (the face of the project), Vicky le Roux (cash collections), Sias Maree, Mike Buys and Nellie Meyer (all responsible for planning), Hannelie Heyns (finance) and himself (management and finance).
“If funds allow, the community would like to build a fence along the Palmiet Crescent,” Van Wyk said.
According to the community member the project entails the removal of the rubble and existing wall panels, and the installation of a new, galvanised, clear-view fence. Van Wyk said an additional R20 000 – which will be added to an amount already in the kitty – is needed to successfully install the fence and restore the community’s safety. “Once enough funds have been collected the installation should be done within a matter of days,” he added.
Van Wyk said community support in the form of monetary donations from individuals or businesses will be greatly appreciated to help them reach target. For more information or to offer any financial assistance in aid of the campaign, email twinpalmscommunity@gmail.com.
