Service centre faces closure
The centre not only delivers meals to many people, but also offers nutritious wholesome meals to those who cannot afford much.
Anerley Service Centre, from which Meals on Wheels operates, is in desperate need of regular monthly financial sponsorship from businesses and individuals.
Without financial help, the facility could face closure soon.
The centre has been serving the community since 2000. It not only delivers meals to people who are immobile but also offers nutritious, wholesome meals to those who cannot afford much.
Numerous activities, including hobbies, fitness classes, community meetings, Sassa services, vaccinations, religious services, memorial teas, concerts, projects for the underprivileged, and items like gift boxes for Anerley Haven, are provided by the centre.
Every year, impoverished children are given a day of games, lunch, and a gift. This year, school supplies were also provided, and presentations by a police officer and other speakers warned children of the dangers they may face.
“We provide a valuable service to the community which is unsustainable without funding. We have operated at a monthly deficit for some time. Rising food, labour, water, and electricity costs have increased pressure on the shrinking budget,” said Laura Vogt, volunteer fundraising committee member.
Some of the urgent needs are to set up backup water tanks and pumps, do gate repairs, redo the outdated plumbing system, and replace the outdated stoves, refrigerators, and freezers.
Also, the delivery of food in an ageing vehicle has further stressed the limited budget.
“We ask corporations to consider giving a monthly donation, taking into account our long-term community service goal. We welcome any individual contributions as well as equipment and/or maintenance service donations,” added Vogt.
Goodness Madlala, who has been with the centre for 25 years, cooks the meals. “I feel sad. If we close our doors, it will affect many people, especially the poor and the children.
The centre provides about 80 meals each on a Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between Umtentweni and Mtwalume.
If able to assist, contact Laura Vogt on 082 7726191 or Cheryl Oldfield on 072 1991582.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
