The 12 residents with severe spinal cord injuries at Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centre (HAO) in Durbanville depend on carers every day for the most basic tasks of life.

From getting out of bed in the morning to personal care, dressing, feeding, transfers, mobility assistance, medication management, and emergency support, these dedicated carers make independent living possible for people who would otherwise require institutional care.

However, the accommodation used by these carers is in urgent need of repair work.

Urgent structural repairs

The centre is now appealing to members of the public, businesses, suppliers, contractors, and community organisations for assistance with urgent structural repairs to its staff quarters, estimated to cost R180 000.

Recent structural concerns, including visible floor settlement, cracking, and movement within the building, prompted the centre to seek professional assistance. A comprehensive structural engineer’s report has since confirmed that remedial works are required to restore the building’s stability and ensure its continued safe use.

Essential part

The staff quarters form an essential part of the centre’s support infrastructure, says Terence Moore, chair of HAO.

“Without carers, many of Huis Andries Olivier’s residents would be unable to maintain the level of independence and quality of life they currently enjoy.

“The carers are the backbone of our facility. They provide the support that enables our residents to live with dignity, purpose, and as much independence as possible. Ensuring that they have safe and secure accommodation is not a luxury – it is a necessity,” says Moore.

Generosity

The centre has been greatly encouraged by the generosity of professionals who have already stepped forward to assist.

“Structural engineer Johan van Eeden of JVE Consulting Engineers Inc. and Charles Jewaskiewitz of Paintmaster have generously contributed their expertise and professional time on a pro bono basis to help HAO assess the extent of the damage and plan the necessary repairs.

“Based on the engineer’s recommendations and the preliminary Bill of Quantities, HAO is seeking to raise approximately R180 000 to undertake the urgent remedial work,” he says.

The repairs will include structural floor stabilisation and repairs; foundation support corrections; wall stabilisation and crack repairs; drainage improvements; plaster restoration and finishing; repainting and protective coatings; general safety and preventative measures.

Final costs

As with many structural repair projects, portions of the building will need to be opened for inspection during the repair process. Final costs may therefore vary depending on conditions uncovered beneath the affected floor areas.

“This appeal is not about improving the appearance of a building. It is about safeguarding the people who provide essential care to some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” Moore urges.

HAO is therefore appealing for assistance in any form, including:

• Financial sponsorships or donations
• Building materials
• Cement, bricks, sand and aggregate
• Reinforcing steel and concrete products
• Paint and plaster materials
• Drywalling materials
• Paving or drainage materials
• Skilled labour or contractor assistance
• Transport and logistical support

Relies on community support

As a registered non-profit organisation, HAO relies heavily on community support to maintain its facilities and continue providing services to persons living with severe physical disabilities.

“Every contribution, no matter the size, will help restore safe and stable accommodation for the carers who support our residents every day. Every rand invested in this project helps preserve dignity, independence, and quality of life. Alone we can do so little. Together we can make a meaningful difference,” Moore says.

Further details, technical information, and the structural engineer’s findings are available to interested sponsors and donors upon request.

• Contact Terence Moore on 082 224 5454, Pieter van Greunen on 074 633 7888, or Rosabelle Riese on 081 497 4044 with any enquiries.

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