ALIWAL Shoal Rotary Club has pledged its support to Khanya Hospice after the organisation outlined its most urgent social and operational needs at a recent club meeting.

Also read: Men repair medical equipment for Khanya Hospice

The organisation currently cares for 85 patients and serves a wide area that stretches from Athlone Park to Mthwalume.

Khanya Hospice, a palliative care organisation that first opened about 17 years ago as Lighthouse Hospice, has continued serving patients despite major setbacks. After its inpatient clinic was forced to close in 1998 when a major donor withdrew support, the organisation continued caring for cancer patients in their homes and providing emotional, psychological and social support to their families. With the need for inpatient care growing, plans to re-establish the clinic are now underway.

Also read: Khanya Hospice CEO bids farewell

A new building has already been designed and is awaiting municipal approval. Funding has been secured and will be released once construction is approved and begins, although meeting day-to-day operational costs remains an ongoing challenge.

Staff salaries, fuel and vehicle maintenance continue to place pressure on the organisation’s resources. Khanya Hospice raises income through its hospice shop in Scottburgh, as well as through donations from the public.

As part of that support, Rotary member and First National Bank local market manager Maureen Biyela has arranged for GBV safety toolkits to be presented to Khanya Hospice care staff for protection while travelling on the road.

Those who would like to make a donation or volunteer their services at the Hospice Shop can contact Victor Hariram on 083 262 5594.

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