Hotel hosts charity benefit day

Highlights of the event included a line-up of comedians, musical performances and a fashion showcase by SA Fashion Week.

TV presenter Jeannie D kicked off proceedings and introduced guests to the work of the home.

Based in Yeoville, the home provides shelter to 62 women, 27 men and 50 children. It was established 16 years ago by the Missionaries of Charity, and is staffed by 10 Catholic sisters.

The sisters’ daily routine includes preparing meals, administering medication and taking care of the sick, offering counselling and visiting destitute families.

Comedian Vittoro Leonardi then took to the stage and kept guests laughing with anecdotes and quips about relationships.

Leonardi was followed by Dave Levinsohn, who kept the laughter going until award-winning singer/songwriter Arno Carstens and his band delighted the audience with songs old and new.

Deep Fried Man brought the show to a close with his unique style of musical socio-political commentary.

Carstens said he got involved with the benefit day because of a two-month stay at the hotel while he presented the Blind Tiger Sessions.

“I was told about the event and wanted to get involved. I wanted to be a part of the family here,” he said.

The hotel’s general manager, Allan Clingham, said, “We are proud to be associated with the home, and it gave us great pleasure to host the event in commemoration and support of the great charity work the sisters do.”