Westcliff resident uses 80th birthday party to raise money for the Red Cross

A Westcliff resident used his 80th birthday party as a means to gather donations for the Red Cross rather than receiving birthday presents.

Sydney Biddulph hosted a birthday party on 22 October and requested that his guests make use of the Red Cross donation box. Biddulph presented Barbara Jensen, the branch manager of the Germiston Red Cross with the donation of more than R8 000 on 26 October, much to Jensen’s delight.

“I didn’t want to have a hundred presents because I don’t need anything and I thought that this would be a good cause and the guests were all very taken with the suggestion,” said Biddulph.

Jensen added that she was delighted when Biddulph got in touch with her about the donation. “I was just overwhelmed by the generosity and very grateful,” she said.

“The money will be used at the Elandsvallei Home for the Aged, a home in Primrose, and we try to make it a home away from home and also keep it as affordable as possible. We have a couple of projects including the daycare centre for the elderly and disaster management and disaster relief training but I chose the home because that has the biggest need right now.”

Sister Wendy Hahne, the manager of the old age home, added that every little bit donated helped regardless of how big or small.

In keeping with the Red Cross theme, Biddulph asked all guests to dress up as either staff, patients and wounded patients and guests happily obliged, making the evening one to remember.

Tell us how you feel about donating birthday gifts to charity on WhatsApp 079 439 5345.

Also read:

Christmas is a time for giving

Loving-kindness meditation can really help with depression and anxiety

Guests and media enjoy a breakfast party and learning new recipes in Rosebank