No entry allowed to Connie Mulder Centre during lockdown

Management of the Connie Mulder Centre said although they provide necessary services to the public, measures had to be put in place to keep their tenants safe during the lockdown.

Fransie Hulme, spokesperson of the centre, said all events had to be cancelled in order to comply with the call made by Cyril Ramaphosa to curb the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

“This means that all the residents that are currently inside our premises will remain inside their homes and unfortunately, those who want to visit will not be allowed to enter the premises,” Hulme said.

Hulme also said the centre is promoting social distancing by avoiding large gatherings.

“We have cancelled trips to churches and towns we normally have every second week,” Hulme said.

Hulme went on to say other annual activities such as Mr and Mrs Connie Mulder Centre, and bingo tournaments have all been put on hold.

However, Hulme said during the lockdown their residents will stay busy with activities in the workshops – but, in very small groups.

“People panicked when news about the coronavirus broke, but our staff members are much more at ease because we held a meeting during which we told them how we were going to manage the situation and what the way forward was,” Hulme said.

Hulme said it was important for the centre to make sure residents did not panic by sharing the correct information.

Hulme added that the management of the centre is still obligated to look after its residents, especially those who have no families.

“Some of them cannot go anywhere; they still have certain needs like going for check-ups, get their regular supply of medication and their homes need to be cleaned. Despite the situation, our people still care and support,” Hulme added.