In a joint venture between the Uitenhage Community Policing Forum, Atlas security company and Levyvale Superspar, the residents from a Kariega residence for mentally challenged adults can now have peace of mind when it comes to safety and security.
According to Pat Unsworth, Chairperson of the Uitenhage CPF, with the generosity of the local businesses, Huis Minette which is situated in Penford, Kariega, now is equipped with two remote alarm panic buttons which when activated, will provide immediate response and even medical assistance.
Unsworth said the CPF does fundraising and continuously seeks worthwhile projects where they can assist with safety and security for people who are vulnerable or in need.
“For us it is all about crime prevention. If we can be involved in projects where we can help to prevent a crime, we have reached our goal. With this panic button system being installed, we know that Huis Minette is in good hands,” said Unsworth.
According to Gerrie Bezuidenhout, owner of the property, there are cameras installed at the premises as well as inside the two residences to monitor the 28 mentally challenged residents.
“This is to react with immediate medical response whenever one of our residents get convulsions or severely sick,” said Bezuidenhout.
Yolandie Minnie, Atlas Security sales consultant said, “We installed a panic system and receiver which comes with two remote panic buttons operating effectively within a radius of 70 metres. It is not only for crime, but also to assist with medical emergencies or in case of a fire.
“We are glad that we can assist at Huis Minette. It is inspiring to see the care and concern Gerrie and Isobel Bezuidenhout have for the mentally challenged adults who otherwise would possibly not have had the privilege to live in such a loving and caring home,” said Minnie.
According to Mark Hitchins, Atlas area commander, it is an honour to protect and serve the residents of Huis Minette.
“It is our philosophy to protect and serve. With the crime rate escalating, we will be there for Huis Minette 24/7.”
Unsworth said Levyvale Superspar agreed to be responsible for the payment of Huis Minette’s monthly subscription fee to Atlas. “We salute new owners of Levyvale Superspar, Joss Blow and Paul Elgar, for their willingness to invest in the community with their involvement in Huis Minette.”
According to Bezuidenhout, the panic system provides them with immense peace of mind. “Time is crucial, and we now know that with an emergency situation we will immediately receive the right kind of assistance,” said Bezuidenhout.
