Hospice Wits reaches out for financial support

For many individuals and their families, the much-loved non-profit organisation, the Hospice Association of the University of Witwatersrand, has been a pillar of strength for those affected by illness for the past 37 years, and now it is the one asking for help.

According to chief executive officer, Jacqui Kaye, due to the current economic downturn, financial aid has been significantly affected as the health sector has lost its appeal to sectors such as skills and job creation.

Kaye said that by not receiving financial assistance from the government, the management of hospice has had to withdraw funds from its investment account for an extended period to keep its head above the water. “We cannot continue to draw on our investments for much longer; our board of governors has been meticulous in preserving these funds over the years,” she said.

“As we approach our financial year-end on 31 March, our deficit currently stands at six million.”

Hospice Wits provides care, comfort and support to patients and families who are affected by life-threatening illnesses. Not only does it provide care to meet the physical needs of its patients, but it goes beyond this to ensure that their emotional, spiritual and psycho-social needs are met as well.

Kaye also thanked the many supporters and donors who have been able to support two of the hospice’s facilities and programmes which include an early childhood development centre in Soweto which assists HIV/Aids-affected orphans and vulnerable children.

“To convey the extent of our work, last year Hospice Wits provided 144 281 patients with interventions,” she said.

“We are appealing to individuals, corporate and other grant-making organisations to assist us through this difficult time.”

Details: Joy Ruwodo 011 483 9156; Lyn Wells 011 483 9126; e-mail info@hospicewits.co.za