Gelvan Park Frail Aged Home in Nelson Mandela Bay is planning a disposable nappy
drive-by on Mandela Day, which takes place annually on July 18.
The non-profit
organisation, which is home to about 100 frail elderly residents from extremely disadvantaged communities, has been facing financial challenges due to rising
cost of living and insufficient income. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physical
fundraising has also been hampered.
According to Chairperson of the Gelvan Park
Frail Aged Home board, Christal George, more than 70% of the frail residents are reliant on
disposable nappies, which come at a significant cost- one of the institute’s highest expenses after food and salaries.
“The institution spends more than R50 000 per month on disposable nappies. In honour of 67 minutes for Madiba, Gelvan Park Frail Aged
Home challenges businesses, sports and social clubs and community members to
donate disposable nappies towards our Home. We appeal to the community to
support our nappy drive-by. This initiative will help to reduce the nappy
expenses,” George said.
The common sizes of disposable nappies used are medium,
large and extra-large.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, volunteers are not allowed to
visit the facility on Mandela Day this year, however, the drive-by is scheduled
between 09:00 to 12:00. The drop-off will take place in front of the Home at 50
Olea Street, Gelvan Park.
“We would like to thank the community for their continuous
support. All donations are immensely appreciated. The last three months were
rather challenging due to the pending annual government subsidy process. During
this time the community’s support helped us to continue delivering quality
services to our residents,” she added.
