When the Gateway Village in Ruimsig requested assistance in building a new home for some of their older villagers, Renico Construction pulled out all the stops to build a beautiful dream house on a solid foundation of good will.
“They were absolutely wonderful,” stated Chanelle Bekker, fundraiser for the Gateway Society for the Disabled. “Before we knew it, they had gained all sorts of sponsorships from their suppliers – including plumbing, door frames and a magnificent tri-faced gas fire place in the middle of the living room.”
The home, which consists of three wings, can house 24 residents and six full-time house-mothers. It was planned by architect Glynton le Roux, who is also a board member and father to one of the villagers. The project was finally completed in July.
Bekker wished to extend her gratitude to not only Le Roux for his exceptional work, but also the Renico team – Nico Louw, managing director; Deon Grimbeek, project manager; Vicus Saayman, site manager; Alida Grundlingh, human resources manager – and all the suppliers who assisted.
“They more than halved the estimated building costs for the home,” Bekker continued. “Now, we just need the community to help us furnish it.”
Jerome Toplin, branch manager of Hirsch’s in Struben’s Valley, has already committed to selling home appliances at cost price to anyone willing to aid with furnishing sponsorship.
“What we basically need the most, are industrial washing and drying machines because we have to wash most things every day due to us not having enough linen. But we also need things like steam irons, cutlery and crockery, curtains… Basically everything one needs to furnish a house.”
Anyone wanting to help the village, is welcome to contact Bekker. “We’re hoping to hold a house warming soon,” she concluded with a gracious smile.
Details: Gateway Society Fundraising 011 958 0384, chanelle@gatewaysociety.co.za
