The Avenues Residents Association (ARA) chairperson, Marinda Beukes, thanked the 35 donors that donated blood during the ARA and SANBS blood drive at Handy Hardware in Northmead on July 1.
However, Beukes expressed her disappointment that they couldn’t reach their target of 100 units but was hopeful the number will be achieved in their next drive.
“We tried to get donors to the blood drive by tempting them with an R1500 cash prize for the 100th donor. This will still be up for grabs in the next drive should we reach the 100 donors.”
Beukes said the ARA was committed to helping the SANBS save lives and urged residents to play their part as well.
“Donating blood is such an honourable thing to do. It’s a nameless and faceless deed to save a life,” she said.
Regular donor Christa Cronjè from Northmead shared Beukes’ sentiments, saying: “I’ve received before so I know how important it is to give.”
Hercules van Staden from Farrarmere was joined by his daughter, Sinead, and they both expressed their happiness in giving back to those in need.
Beukes said the drive was part of the ARA’s goal to teach people to care and get involved in areas they reside in.
“We have to start looking out for each other as no one else will. We aim to get the community involved and give back as much as we can,” she said.
The ARA’s next project will be the installation of off-site monitoring cameras on Fifth Avenue. Other activities include their Women’s Day treat for the elderly, Spring Day event and the market day at Handy Hardware in November.
“We ask for the support of the community. We will be doing fundraisers every second Friday by selling food.
“We aim to build a wall, behind the Benoni Child Welfare Centre next to the N12 for the safety of our residents and the children’s home with the funds. Due to the lack of interest from Sanral, we are heavily impacted by crime due to the easy access to our community,” Beukes said.
To get more details on the ARA’s projects and more, contact them on info.avenuesra@gmail.com.
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