A newly formed committee driving fundraising initiatives in aid of Sencit Resthaven Home for the Aged in Strand is calling on the greater Helderberg community’s much-needed support.
“Sencit has been through tough times before, but has always managed to stay afloat, in part due to donations in cash and in kind. However, the onset of Covid-19 has had devastating effects on the Strand facility,” said William Botha, secretary of the Sencit Resthaven Old Age Home Board.
He explained crippling pandemic times had resulted in government’s order to keep three rooms vacant to cater for quarantines and isolation in the event residents contracted Covid-19. This left the facility with a loss of eight beds – 20% of its capacity – which, in turn, led to a substantial loss of income.
“Over the years we managed to build up a little cash reserve that helped us maintain a healthy cash flow. However, the sudden and extended drop in income forced us to use that reserve and we are now experiencing a serious financial crisis. We then turned to the relatives of our residents and they decided to form this extended committee.”
Botha, in hopes of painting a picture of the situation, said the crisis had resulted in the facility not being able to pay dedicated staff by the 25th of every month, but by the first week of the new month.
Furthermore, the facility also had to retrench five staffers in hopes that this would trigger a financial recovery.
Hence, the fundraising committee was started; it boasts 21 members focusing efforts aimed at boosting monthly incomes (for the short-term), and initiating specific projects pertaining to the building and maintenance (for the longer term).
The committee’s first fundraising initiative took the form of a karaoke, which was held at Empire Lounge in Gants Centre last Friday (11 March).
Botha said those attending the event were also requested to take along food donations for which a donation box was provided.
“The event was a success, as altogether R8 000 in cash and quite some donations in kind were tallied. This may seem small, but it was the committee’s first attempt and was organised in a very short space of time.”
Botha urged the community to get behind the committee, who welcomes their support with fundraising initiatives which will help the old-age home in dire need and the Helderberg’s elderly and frail residents.
“Sencit needs a lot of help – with maintenance of the building and premises, food, diapers and assistance with getting residents around, especially with trips to hospital and clinic as the facility does not have transport.”
According to Botha, a goal of raising R100 000 for the year has been set, and while “it may sound a lot, it’s doable” with the community’s support.
The committee has further fundraising ideas in the pipeline, which is in the process of being finalised.
V Anyone willing and able to assist Sencit financially or with donations is welcome to contact the facility on 021 845 8502.
