Retirement home in operation for over 60 years
In the beginning, funds were raised through donations in lieu of wreaths.
Sixty four years on, the Flower Foundation retirement facility in Port Shepstone is today home to 50 residents in 41 units.
One of the very first community projects adopted by the Rotary Club of Port Shepstone after its charter in December 1950, was the establishment of a local Flower Foundation with the objective of providing accommodation for senior citizens living on a state pension.
ALSO READ : Flower Foundation turns 60
No facilities existed at the time, and the need was pressing.
Today the home is run by a committee of committed people, chairman Graham Dickson, Merle Thompson (welfare) from Rotary Club of Port Shepstone, Anne Thompson (secretary) from Hibiscus Coast Rotary Club, Terry Carter (treasurer) Chris Boyce (maintenance) and Peter Jenkins, principal of Port Shepstone High School.
Mr Dickson said since 1994, government funding for homes for the aged no longer exist. Also, their waiting list is extensive.
Mr Dickson believes in giving back to the community, and has been involved at the home for the last 15 years.
“The first cottages were completed in 1955. Since then, other cottages have been added, and now number 10. The blocks of flats have four flats each,” added Mr Dickson.
He said there are so many people out there who are desperate for a roof over their heads, and some food each day.
“We are only able to help 50 people at a time, but we do so knowing that they, at least, may live with some dignity and security,” he said.
The home depends entirely on money contributed in various ways by the public.
In the beginning, funds were raised through donations in lieu of wreaths.
Today the foundation receives its funds from legacies, donations and various fundraising activities.
“Many service clubs donate monthly to the home, and we are extremely grateful for this,” said Mr Dickson.
All donations, including clothes, are more than welcome.
Email flowerfoundation@gmail.com or 039 682 0820.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
