Support Ry-Ma-In Self Help Centre

Ry-Ma-In Self Help Centre, a home for quadriplegic and paraplegic people, is actively seeking ways to improve the daily lives of its residents through fundraising.

Chairperson of the centre based in Linden, Hercie Blaauw said the organisation currently has eight residents on their premises and some of them help with running the centre’s charity shop. There are also various fundraising initiatives the organisation is involved in that it would like the public to be aware of and support.

“Our most recent fundraising effort is a cycling team of 20 members who are competing in the 947 Cycling Challenge on 20 November. We would appreciate sponsorship for every kilometre the team completes,” said Blaauw.

“Our charity store also needs usable donations of clothing, books, furniture, electrical ware and anything else people don’t need that is in good condition.” She explained that the funds raised will go towards running the organisation, paying staff members, purchasing food and maintenance costs.

The building the residents live in is very old and requires renovations and electrical rewiring. “We also need electricity to charge our electrical chairs every night and their maintenance is quite expensive. Most of us are dependent on our disability grants and caregivers who give quadriplegics 24-hour care.”

In order to raise funds, residents also host a high tea once a year where members of the public are welcome. The organisation also has a library on their premises with a wide variety of donated books to choose from and purchase.

Ry-Ma-In Self Help Centre resident Nevonia Moodley said she enjoys working with people and assisting at the charity shop. “People who come to the store are very friendly and are nice to work with. We want to make a difference in helping to maintain our home. With the help of the community I believe we will be able to do it.”

Details: 011 888 3335.