Local blind councillor raises R13k for old aged homes
“Both old age homes have many financial challenges. My only request is for them to use the raised money to the benefit of the residents of Harmonie Park.”
Local blind ward councillor Hentie Nortjé completed his 23rd consecutive Midmar Mile recently, raising R13 000 for charity in the process.
“Swimming of the mile went well, even though it was quite cool and rainy at the start on Saturday, February 11 at 08:15. Furthermore, the water was the coldest in years and I had to adapt,” Nortjé remarked.
The aQuelle Midmar Mile celebrated its 50th anniversary and Nortjé says that the funds raised are for the Harmonie Park Home for Older Persons in central Pretoria.
“I believe that the total money raised amounts currently to the sum of approximately R13 000. Both old age homes have many financial challenges. My only request to them is to use the raised money to the benefit of the residents of Harmonie Park. I am coming a long way with the management at Harmonie Park and I trust them to spend the money well,” Nortjé continued.
Harmonie Park is an NPO that offers accommodation to self-sufficient and frail elderly people.
It’s split into two facilities, Harmonie Oord and Harmoniehof.
Harmonie Oord provides accommodation and meals to independent Sassa pensioners and others with a low financial income with no place to stay. It has 180 residents and meals are provided through donations.
Harmoniehof provides accommodation and cares for older persons that need more assistance and frail care. Harmoniehof has 115 residents whose needs go beyond their financial limitations – only 35 receive Sassa grants.
Harmonie Park does not receive any grant from the government, thus the cost of living has taken its toll on the home’s finances.
Even though the ward 81 DA PR councillor has now participated in the event 23 times, he still has no intention of stopping.
ALSO READ: Blind councillor to swim mile for aged
“My next goal is the 24th consecutive Midmar Mile, if possible, in 2024. Every event is a blessing. The reason for me to also continue is to see whether I can support a charity organisation financially through my fundraising campaigns. This is an extra motivation each year,” he said.
Nortjé thanked his youngest son, Henco, for swimming and training with him, his wife Ronel for being the team manager for the past 23 Midmar Miles, his secretary Martinette for managing the fundraising towards Harmonie Park (including the Back-a-buddy page), and Harmonie Park management for their support.
Nortjé recommends that first-time participants of the Midmar Mile study the background of the swim very well before taking part.
“It is also important to obtain a proper training programme, alternatively join a swimming coach who can prepare you for the event. It is also important to have self-discipline and self-belief.”
Nortjé is determined to include a fitness regiment in what he hopes will be a prosperous 2023 for himself and his ward.
“I would like to do my best to continue swimming, even, if possible, through the winter of 2023. I would also like to continue going to the gym and attend my CrossFit class once a week,” Nortjé concluded.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
