Talisman Foundation, a home for adults living with mental disabilities, is asking for urgent help from the public.

The organisation has been caring for people since the 1970s. It is home to 176 residents, many of whom have lived there for years and have nowhere else to go.

Talisman has been told to leave the property by May 14. The building belongs to the Old Apostolic Church, which plans to sell it.

Chairperson Jackie Tau said the dispute between Talisman and the landlord centres on the poor condition of the building.

The property has ageing pipes that leak and has experienced water and electricity billing issues for many years.

The church once offered to sell the property to Talisman, but the price became too high. It increased from about R14m to R30m, which the organisation could not afford.

Talisman is asking for donations to help save the home or move residents to a safe place.

The money will be used to:

• Continue providing daily care and essential services.

• Secure a permanent home or relocate to a safe, suitable facility.

• Support the dedicated staff who care for their residents with compassion.

• Protect the dignity, safety and well-being of those who depend on them.

• Ensure this vital service continues for future residents, families and communities.

Tau said the safety and dignity of residents is the most important thing. Many residents have built their lives at Talisman. Some have partners, families, and even pets there.

The foundation is working with the Department of Health and legal teams to try to secure more time, but time is running out.

The public is encouraged to donate. Even small help can make a big difference.

Their campaign is now live, and people can simply search for “Talisman Foundation” on BackaBuddy and all the campaign details will appear and the donation process. Alternatively, they can access it directly using the link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/talisman-foundation

For more information, contact Tim on 078 072 4043 or email timothy@talisman.org.za