Daveyton home for disabled welcomes new board members
Financial reports revealed the organisation is running at a loss but can get back on its feet with assistance.
Elethu Cheshire Home in Daveyton welcomed new board members during their AGM recently.
Moses Maphosho retained her position as chairperson of the organisation and introduced Velile Maranisi as the vice-chairperson, Smangele Matseke as the treasurer, Shumani Musandiwa as the secretary, Simon Mashigo and Sarah Sibiya for fund-raising.
Financial reports revealed the organisation is running at a loss but can get back on its feet should anyone be willing to assist them.
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The home for the disabled was struggling to pay off their electricity bill of R182 000 due to non-payment since 2019.
Since the pandemic, they had two positive Covid-19 cases and no deaths; however, one of their board members, Themba Hlatshwayo, died.
Maphosho said an agreement was signed with Eskom in terms of the debt settlement. The burden of keeping up to date with the account and the monthly electricity costs remain.
“We have had benevolent companies that have been making regular contributions to settle the bill and we would encourage more businesses and individuals to sget involved,” said Maphosho.
Maphosho said the resignation of Sr Vicky Manzini and the death of deputy chairperson Hlatshwayo debilitated the board.
“The appointment of the new centre manager, Sandile Mafu, has brought calmness to the home and the focus of the board shifted from fighting office fires to finding ways and means of making life better for the residents,” he said.
“We are also indebted to the Department of Social Development for the gesture of providing the residents with a vehicle. Though we still have the vehicle, the addition of this asset bodes well for the safer provision of transport for the residents.”
Mafu said the residents started physiotherapy twice a month in May.
“They are also having art and craft classes and board games sessions daily. This is to keep them stimulated and active,” said Mafu.
“Boston City Campus has offered the residents and staff members an NQF level two certificate in call centre, computer, life skills and administration for nine months. The home receives a R1 000 donation for the duration of the course.”
Mafu highlighted some of the home’s challenges such as security.
“The home has three security personnel and we don’t have an electronic security system to monitor the premises. During the day, there is no security guard to monitor those coming into the premises.
“Caregivers don’t feel safe at night after a few incidents that have occurred at the home. The home would appreciate any assistance in that department.”
She also thanked all the donors who have supported them throughout the year.
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The newly appointed social worker, Nkanyezi Ntshobeni, said she will continue to build a strong relationship between her and the residents.
She also plans to proceed with awareness campaigns or community work as soon as the regulations permit.
The home will appreciate any donation of food, bedding, linens, adult diapers, sanitary towels, toiletries, cleaning utensils, gardening tools, acrylic paint, paintbrushes, gas bottles, clothes and items that can be sold at their charity shop.
Anyone who would like to donate or volunteer can contact Mafu on 011 424 7050 or at daveyton@cherishehomes.org.za
