Nelspruit Hospice might have to close its doors
Nelspruit Hospice finds itself in dire financial straits, which might force it to close by the end of October unless help arrives from somewhere.
Nelspruit Hospice is in urgent need of your help for it to continue existing and aiding the community.
The organisation found out at the end of February that its application for funding from the National Lottery Commission had been turned down. This was a massive setback financially; to such an extent that one of its nurses as well as its bookkeeper had to be retrenched.
If the situation does not improve soon, management said it would likely only be able to keep its doors open until the end of October. “Hospice is so necessary, and 90% of our services are for free,” said Landi Bezuidenhout, the CEO of Nelspruit Hospice.
Its general running cost per month is between R125 000 and R130 000. Other than buying from its charity shop in Ferreira Street or making a normal donation, the public can also donate via a monthly debit order or mention hospice in their will. You can request that funds you donate be directed to a specific cause. Any amount above R500 comes with an 18A certificate for tax purposes.
Management wants the public to know that it is not all doom and gloom at its organisation, as is the general idea the public has when thinking of it. Hospice hosts wellness days on a monthly basis and everyone is welcome – whether you are ill, have a family member who is ill, or just need an escape.
Bezuidenhout said they assist between 36 and 40 patients per month. This includes anyone with a life-threatening disease. She emphasised the fact that they do not only help people with diseases, but also provide much-needed support to their family members, whether it be through counselling or teaching them how to care for their loved ones.
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The organisation provides services in people’s homes, but also at old age homes’ frail care units when needed. Bezuidenhout said it was also important to understand that they do not only focus on the physical symptoms that come with a life-threatening disease; they focus on the person as a whole. Their anxiety, fear, how they process their illness, what keeps them going spiritually.
Hospice also makes medical equipment available, like wheelchairs and beds. All of the above is only possible with the support from the community it serves.
Should you wish to get involved in any way you can contact Nelspruit Hospice on 013 744 0095 or 079 070 2166 or at reception@nelspruithospice.co.za.
You can make a donation to Nelspruit Hospice: First National Bank, branch code: 250016, account number: 62093964891.
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