Lucas Mapa with Gem Home residents, Arthur Hat, Julie Read, and Lea Bam, enjoy the festive atmosphere. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
The season of joy and giving came early for Gem Homes as residents, volunteers and supporters gathered for the retirement home’s annual Christmas in July fundraiser in Roosevelt Park.
The annual fundraiser featured handmade crafts, baked goods, clothing, books and other treasures, with proceeds going towards maintaining the home and assisting residents who struggle to cover the full cost of their care. Gem Homes manager Clive Salgado said the fundraiser has become an important source of income for the retirement home.
Julie Wienand takes in the festive cheer with her reindeer horns at the Christmas in July fundraiser. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Resident Geraldine Blackwell supports the retirement home's Christmas in July fundraising initiative. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Gem Homes resident, Bernice Lass, all smiles for the Gem Homes Christmas in July fundraiser. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Funds raised will contribute towards planned improvements, including renovations to the hall and office, while also helping subsidise accommodation costs for residents whose pensions and grants are insufficient. Salgado said that while some residents operate their own stalls and keep the money they earn, the majority of the market is dedicated to fundraising for the home.
Gem Homes head and chairman of the executive council Spencer Blackbeard and treasurer Vincent Anderes welcome visitors to the Roosevelt Park retirement home's Christmas in July fundraising market. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Yvonne De Freitas showcases her handmade and hand-painted Christmas gifts at the Gem Homes Christmas in July market. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Shaun and Linda Prince at the Christmas in July fundraiser at Gem Homes. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Lydia Moagi and Irma Viviers enjoy the sun at the Gem Homes Christmas in July fundraiser. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Pan Vanreenen and Avon Anderson together at the Gem Homes Christmas in July fundraiser. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Hand-knitted baby jerseys, beanies, and blankets, lovingly made by Gem Homes residents for their Christmas in July event. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Sandy Baker and Sheila Cook raise funds for Gem Homes. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Lucas Mapa with Gem Home residents, Arthur Hat, Julie Read, and Lea Bam, enjoy the festive atmosphere. Photo: Waydon Jacobs
Salgado said the continued support from the Roosevelt Park community allows Gem Homes to continue providing quality care while improving the facilities residents call home.
Waydon Jacobs is community journalist who has written articles for the Northcliff Melville Times. He has covered various stories including sports, community, and schools.
