The Cape Peninsula Organisation for the Aged (CPOA) has pledged to donate buildings of three Cape Flats old-age homes to other NGOs. This follows their decision to cease operations at the facilities.
The donation will benefit Nerina Place in Bishop Lavis, Lilyhaven in Bonteheuwel and Oakhaven in Heideveld. Communities in these neighbourhoods came together to protest the closure affecting 300 residents, as they said they had not been consulted and desperately needed the services in their areas.
“Nerina Place in Bishop Lavis will be the first home to be closed. All 88 residents from Nerina Place will be accommodated in alternative CPOA welfare homes where there are beds available.
“In order to ensure a smooth transition, a maximum number of five residents will be transferred at a time, allowing for companionship as they move into their new home. The residents have been advised of the transfer and have been fully prepared to move into new premises. We expect this process will take around two months, ensuring time for the residents to settle in,” said CPOA.
As CPOA is prepared to donate the buildings to other NGOs, various community leaders have made contact and are engaged in discussions to take over the vacant buildings “We have the best interests of the elderly at heart and we guarantee that every resident will have a place to reside where they will continue to enjoy nutritious meals and receive the quality of care, they are accustomed to,” said the organisation.
One of the community members, Wesley Moodley said: “We were not happy with the way this decision came about, because as a community we are affected but were not consulted. Moodley said they would be submitting an alternative proposal for the communities.
“As a community, we are willing to take over the responsibility and manage these facilities because we do not want these buildings re-purposed. There is a huge need for frail care. We cannot afford to lose these services,” he added.
Some proposals have already been submitted, the CPOA said. Interested parties can send their proposals to info@cpoa.org.za
