Fundraising fête for the elderly

GEM Homes hosted a successful fundraising fête for the elderly on 1 November at Roosevelt Park.

Residents flocked together to support the home’s second fundraising fête, which left many individuals pleased with the sales.

“I am happy with the result of the fête,” said Randburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Linda Blackbeard, who helped organise the event.

Donations of furniture and goodies were given to the home by outsiders for them to sell on the day, she said.

Blackbeard also acknowledged individuals who contributed immensely.

“Audrey Hindle came with her jewellery and, with some donations to her, she used that to buy the beads and jewellery décor items. She also spent her own money on purchasing hardware and, as a state pensioner, I find that just amazing of her to do so… it’s wonderful to see how she gives all the time.” she said.

The chairman’s wife Mavis Boberg also donated wool for the women to knit jerseys and blankets for the fête, shared Blackbeard.

“We urge outsiders to please deliver their unwanted books, clothing and other wares that could be sold at the fêtes to the front office at GEM… they will accept them with thanks,” said Blackbeard.

Earlier this year, GEM hosted a fête that helped to raise funds to fix the exterior areas of the pensioners’ buildings and gardens.

“The funds raised are used for the ongoing upkeep and maintenance, as well as improvements to the establishment, and it is also used to subsidise rent as there is a shortfall from the low state pensions that the pensioners receive.”

GEM homes offer a secure environment, effectively run by the executive committee made up of professional businesspersons who volunteer their time to assist in the efficient running of the home, she said.

“It’s Randburg Chambers’ pleasure to be able to be associated with this home and I am personally happy to offer my services to assist them at their fêtes where they see fit to place me,” she concluded.