AS WE go about enjoying the festive season, local charities have asked that we not forget the needy at this time.
The Covid-19 pandemic and related lockdown restrictions have prevented charities from hosting regular fund-raisers for almost two years. That means they need help to take care of those who rely on them for basic necessities like shelter, food and clothing. This includes destitute animals who are in need of basic provisions and food.
Here are some organisations that have requested help:
* The Aryan Benevolent Home (ABH)
The ABH is a 100-year-old national non-profit organisation (NPO) that offers care and shelter to the aged and frail, victims of violence and abuse, children and the mentally and physically challenged.
The home’s activities are spread over five facilities in the greater Durban area, an aged-care facility in Glencoe and two children’s homes in Lenasia, Gauteng. The ABH also have an outreach programme in the Western Cape.
Naren Pattundeen, the CEO of the ABH, said: “The ABH cares for 726 people and our home’s operational expenses amount to R50.3 million. The cost of salaries is R28.5 million. This makes up 56% of our expenses.
“Our pension/subsidy from our residents is R26.5 million. This amount doesn’t even cover our salaries. Our guaranteed income is R4.5 million. This requires us to raise donations amounting to R19.2 million.
“In the past year, despite aggressive marketing, we managed to raise R19 million. We have only been able to survive a century of caring, sharing and serving through the inspiring, generous support of donors. So we encourage businesses and individuals to please help our home. We need funds to meet our operational expenses."
He said toiletries, stationery, textbooks, school uniforms, meal donations, groceries, new clothing and new shoes would also be appreciated.
Donations can be dropped off at the ABH’s headquarters at 80 Arena Park Drive, Chatsworth. If you’d like to make a cash donation, call 031 404 9523, email pr@abh.co.za or visit their website.
* The Association for The Aged (Tafta)
Femada Shamam, the CEO of Tafta, said last Christmas was not much fun for a lot of people. There were no large family gatherings, trips to the beach and eating out. For elders living at Tafta, Covid-19 lockdowns meant missing out on their annual festive lunch.
“We are determined to give our elders a real festive get-together this year. Most of our elders have had their vaccinations, and with lockdown restrictions easing, we are hoping for the best and planning festive lunch menus, dates and venues. It is the good people of Durban who make it possible for us to dish up 1 500 lunches to Durban’s elders over the festive season.”
Tafta has outsourced the catering, with this year’s meal of roast chicken and lamb, crispy potatoes, vegetables and dessert amounting to R125 per person.
“Your gift of R250 will pay for two friends to go to lunch together, while R500 will pay for a table of four and a gift of R750 or R1 000 covers a table of six or eight. But any amount you can give now will help bring Christmas cheer into our homes.
"If the worst comes to the worst and we find ourselves back in lockdown again this festive season, be assured that your meal will still be enjoyed by one of Tafta’s elders in the safety of his or her rooms,” said Shamam.
For more information on how to help, visit their website or call Kemmy-Leigh on 031 332 3721
*St. Monica’s Children’s Home
St Monica's Children Home on the Bluff needs help with donations for food (tin foods, pasta etc.), toiletries, secind-hand clothing and stationary. Thr drive is being co-ordinated by Mc Naught and Company Attorneys. For more information visit their Facebook Page.
* Durban & Coast SPCA
Tanya Fleischer, the marketing manager for The Durban and Coast SPCA, said: “We are busy raising funds for new dog and cat beds at our SPCA to replace all the broken ones. If anyone would like to contribute to this project, they can read more on our website.”
* Support a local charity
Speak to your local ward councillor about smaller charities/homes in your community that may also need help. In that way, you can ensure that you are assisting a legitimate operation that is also in need.
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