A non-formal group of people called Friends & Family, who attempt to provide a “recipe for happiness” by reaching out to those in need, indeed brings positive change in their communities.
Most of the Friends & Family group consists of former members of the Lions (who for business or age retired from the Uitenhage Lions Club) as well as family and friends who are prepared to help those in need in the UD community.
In their latest “recipe for happiness” they donated a brand new 14kg top loader washing machine to Blackies old age home at Despatch whose washing services provided include linen, clothing, and general household effects.
Denis Murphy, one of the members of the group said, “We came to hear about Anna (owner of Blackies) who had to tackle all the washing on her own. Washing clothing and bedding by hand is tough and she had to do that daily.
“We spread the word among our group members as well as the Lions Club members. In the end, with the help of the Lions, we were able to buy a brand-new industrial washing machine for Blackies.”
Marie Oberholzer, also a member of the Friends & Family group said, “God is so good. We would like to thank the members of Friends & Family together with the Lions Club members who helped us to purchase the new washing machine for Blackies. It is much appreciated.”
Blackies old age home normally takes care of 30 people including retired and mentally challenged individuals. Currently, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are 21 residents with the oldest being 88-years and six staff members to take care of them.
The 14 kg top loader washing machine was delivered to Blackies and an overwhelmed Anna Black (67) could not believe that they were the recipients of this “recipe of happiness”.
Anna started Blackies 23 years ago and said, “I am so grateful for the support of the Friends & Family. I was totally surprised when they came here with the new washing machine. A huge thank you to each person who contributed towards us receiving this much needed washing machine. Owing to the current pandemic which resulted in a restricted income, we are not in a financial position to be able to buy a brand-new machine like the one we received. This means the world to us; may God bless you all.”
