Rand Water project to support Stepping Stone Hospice’s Children’s Unit
A hybrid solar system and new laundry equipment will help the Alberton-based unit maintain essential services for children living with life-limiting illnesses.
Stepping Stone Hospice’s Children’s Unit is set to benefit from a Rand Water social development project that will provide a hybrid solar system and new laundry equipment to support its specialised palliative care services.
The project follows a needs analysis conducted at the unit, which cares for children living with life-limiting illnesses.
The non-profit organisation was selected as the beneficiary following the involvement of Ward 106 councillor Tim Denny, who advocated for the organisation and introduced it to Rand Water’s corporate social responsibility team.
Meeting daily needs
The project’s request for quotation covers the supply, installation, testing and commissioning of a 5kVA hybrid solar system, as well as the supply and delivery of a heavy-duty washing machine and tumble dryer.
The equipment is expected to assist the unit in meeting the daily needs of the children in its care, with reliable electricity and laundry facilities playing an important role in maintaining a clean, comfortable environment.
Denny also helped circulate the project advertisement to suitable small, medium and micro enterprises in Ward 106 and surrounding areas.
Preference was given to local businesses that meet the required compliance and capacity criteria, extending the potential benefits of the project to the wider community.
Community partnership
Following a recent site visit by the construction company ahead of the project, Denny expressed appreciation for Rand Water’s commitment to its social development responsibilities.
He thanked the utility for its partnership and expressed hope that the relationship would continue as work progresses on the Meyer and Alberton pipelines and local reservoirs.
Stepping Stone Hospice founder and CEO Tersia Burger said the support would make a meaningful difference to the children and families receiving care at the unit.
“For a unit that cares for children around the clock, reliable power and clean laundry are not luxuries, they are essential,” Burger said.
She thanked Denny for advocating for the organisation and Rand Water for investing in the needs of the Children’s Unit.
“This gift will allow our team to keep doing what we do best, and that is to care for every child with comfort, dignity and love,” she said.
The project highlights the role of partnerships between public entities, local representatives and non-profit organisations in supporting community needs and improving services for vulnerable children.
