KNYSNA NEWS - As part of their ongoing efforts to make a difference within the community, the Knysna Rotary Anns recently lent a helping hand to the elderly residents at the Vermont Centre in Hornlee.
The Anns treated the residents to goody bags full of toiletries to brighten their days. "Knysna Rotary Anns try to assist the elderly in our community, and this month we focused on the Vermont Home," the organisation said in a post on social media.
"The residents are always in need of the smaller things that make life more comfortable, so the Rotary Anns supplied them all with a bag of toiletries. We know what pleasure a surprise packet gives, even though smiles were hidden behind face masks!"
President Jean Allan describes the Rotary Anns as "a group of caring women who want to make a difference in the Knysna community". She said contrary to belief it's not necessary to have a link with Rotary.
"The ladies pay a small annual subscription and work enthusiastically, when Covid-19 regulations allow, to raise funds, often through fun events like bridge and mahjong afternoons, speaker events, golf days, wine tastings etc."
In addition to working with Rotary to supply much-needed mattresses for Epilepsy SA Southern Cape/Karoo, the Anns also recently helped the Living Cornerstone Home for Alzheimer's patients in Sedgefield with a grocery voucher as the running costs of caring for 21 residents is very high.
"The ladies do not only help the elderly, but recently found the funds to help the organisation Babies in Need', run by Mary-Anne Farnham," Allan said. "A roll of fabric was bought to be made into baby blankets for new mothers who arrive at the maternity ward with very little for their babies."
Several of the Anns, along with a resident of Vermont, are busy sewing bundles of blankets, which will form part of the "starter packs" for the new babies.
"Once Covid-19 is no longer a restriction, the Anns plan to also get back to some social gatherings which have always added to the pleasure of belonging to such a caring group of women," Allan said.
If you want to join and make a difference, however small, contact Jean Allan on 082 896 6492 or via e-mail at jeanallanza@gmail.com for more information.
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