Welkom – The Goldfields Hospice Association has issued an urgent appeal for financial assistance as financial pressures threaten its ability to continue providing free home-based palliative care services across the Lejweleputswa District.

The non-profit organisation, which supports up to 450 patients and their families every month, has been operating for 38 years. According to Tanja Schutte, Goldfields Hospice general manager, the past year has been one of the most challenging in the organisation’s history.

“We remain committed to caring for every patient in need, regardless of their financial circumstances or access to private healthcare,” said Schutte.

“However, without the support of the community, it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain the level of service we have delivered for almost four decades.”

Goldfields Hospice provides holistic palliative care to patients suffering from terminal illnesses. Through a team of nurses and caregivers, patients receive medical care, emotional support and counselling in their own homes.

Caregivers serve communities in Welkom, Thabong, Meloding, Odendaalsrus and Allanridge, ensuring that patients across the district have access to healthcare and support services.

The organisation assists HIV and tuberculosis patients with treatment support and works to prevent the spread of infection within households. Monthly support groups are hosted for mobile patients, providing education, guidance and awareness on health-related issues.

The hospice supports bedridden patients and struggling families by providing medical equipment, adult nappies and, when donations permit, food parcels.

Chairperson of the hospice board, Ray Goodsell, said the organisation’s mission remains rooted in dignity, compassion and quality care.

“Our goal has always been to provide caring, efficient and holistic healthcare in accordance with the standards of the Hospice Palliative Care Association,” said Goodsell.

The organisation achieved full accreditation from the Council for Health Services Accreditation of Southern Africa (COHSASA) in 2009 and was reaccredited in 2012.

Goodsell said the hospice’s future depends on the support of the wider Goldfields community.

“Every contribution, no matter how small, helps us continue caring for patients who would otherwise have nowhere to turn. We appeal to businesses, organisations and individuals to stand with us so that we can continue bringing comfort, dignity and hope to those facing life-limiting illnesses.”

The organisation said a monthly donation of R100 could make a significant difference.

Goldfields Hospice has urged residents to support its fundraising initiatives throughout the year.

“Every purchase, every sponsorship secured and every event supported helps us continue our work,” said Schutte.

The second-hand shop the Butterfly Box can be visited every Tuesday between 09:00 and 12:00.

Community members can contribute through monthly donations, sponsorships, medical supplies, food parcels or volunteer services. For information or to make a contribution, contact the Goldfields Hospice office on 057 353 2152/9.

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