Winnie Mkhize, manager of Merewent Cheshire Home (third from left), with residents.
Image: Nadia Khan
MEREWENT Cheshire Home is appealing for community support through a telethon to raise R1 million for a utility bill and repair a broken bus essential for transporting residents with disabilities.
Winnie Mkhize, the home’s manager, said they provided accommodation and care for 35 people with physical disabilities aged between 18 and 59. They are unable to use their limbs due to illnesses such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, accidents, or stroke, and they use walking aids or wheelchairs.
The home in Wentworth accepts residents aged 18 to 59. Once they turn 60, they will need to be placed in an old-age facility.
"Apart from accommodation, we offer nursing care services. Caregivers provide daily living assistance, including bathing and grooming residents (cutting their hair and nails) and feeding them. We take them to hospitals and clinics for their chronic medication and check-ups. We also provide social work services. We also take them on outings, attend sporting events, and participate in social recreational activities."
Mkhize said the registered non-profit organisation received a subsidy from the Department of Social Development, but it barely covered 50% of their operational costs.
"The funds cover the monthly salaries, while the residents' grants are insufficient for food and other needs. We have to raise additional funds to stay afloat every month. We write to businesses for funding and hold fundraisers, but we are struggling. Our municipal bill is currently R1 million, a debt I inherited when I joined the home in 2021. Another challenge is transporting residents because our bus is broken.
Our bus is 21 years old, fully equipped, and modified to transport our residents. However, last September it broke down while we were travelling and had to be towed back to the home. There is a problem with the diesel pump, the computer box, and numerous other issues. A mechanic has offered free labour but we need about R150,000 for the spares. We need the bus back on the road to transport the residents to the hospital and clinic. We also have to decline event invitations, which saddens the residents," she said.
The home will be hosting a telethon.
Image: Supplied
Mkhize said the telethon would held at the home at 15 Eksteen Road on March 25 and 26 from 9.30am to 4pm.
"All you have to do is come to the home on the day and call 10 or more of your contacts to pledge any amount they can afford. We appeal to the public to come out and support us on both days. You can make a great difference in the lives of our residents."