The Welridge Residents Association (WRA) is calling on nearby residents’ associations and businesses to help improve conditions at the Weltevreden Park Community Clinic.

The association is asking for donations to replace torn blinds and damaged benches at the clinic, where many residents wait daily for medical care. Some of the benches are broken, while others lack backrests, making it uncomfortable for patients, especially in winter.

WRA members’ liaison officer Audrey Vrachionidis said the clinic falls under her health portfolio, and the association has been supporting the facility for some time. She explained that the WRA has previously donated cleaning materials and other necessities to the clinic.

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“In the past, our RA sponsored and donated cleaning materials, chemicals, stationery, mops and buckets,” she said.

She said the association has already contacted several neighbouring residents’ associations, including the Panorama Residents Association, Randpark Ridge, RiverWel RA and Allen’s Nek, to ask for support.

According to Audrey, the Allen’s Nek Residents Association has already played a major role in assisting the clinic.

“They’ve supplied more chemicals and stuff than what we have even. They’re also driving it to see if their members will contribute,” she said.

Audrey added that some associations are also approaching businesses in their areas for donations.

She believes the improvements will benefit the entire community.

“This facility is used by everyone in and around our community. Everybody needs to just think a little bit beyond their own pocket,” Audrey said.

Audrey also shared that she has the quote of how much money is needed to replace the blinds and get new chairs and benches for the facility, and that the WRA is also willing to take money out of its own pocket to get the project going before the end of May.

The Roodepoort Northsider spoke to some of the residents visiting the clinic and will welcome the planned improvements.

Noluthando Khumalo said better seating and new blinds would make waiting at the clinic more comfortable.
“I will be happy to see the new blinds in the waiting area and have some comfortable benches while waiting, especially since the benches get cold in winter,” she said.

Another resident said the repairs would also help patients during bad weather.

“That would mean we won’t have to worry about the rain when it’s stormy,” he said.

Members and businesses who would like to find out how they can make contributions can reach out to the respective RAs or contact Audrey on 073 045 8152.