Vermont left in the dark

KNYSNA NEWS - Vermont Centre for the Elderly in Hornlee was on the verge of a total shutdown last week when the municipality cut off their electricity supply due to payment in arrears. Although power was restored hours later, the centre remains in a financial crisis.

This was not the first time, said an anonymous Vermont resident, adding that the municipality has written off their arrears in the past and has often "given grace" to the centre.

Vermont owes the municipality R285 000, with their monthly account amounting to at least R30 000.

"In the interest of the residents and patients, we have reconnected the electricity," reads a statement from the municipality, adding that the mayor and municipal manager will meet with Vermont management to discuss a long-term solution.

Nowhere else to go
The centre is an NPO that accommodates more than 50 elderly people in frail care who survive on a government pension only. Most of the people have no family and nowhere else to go.

A walk through the centre reveals dark corridors as only essential lights are switched on – all just to save every cent they can.

"People can't survive here without electricity, especially all the frail care patients. People need hot water and warm food," said the resident.

Centre manager Hendrick Blaauw said the NPO has been in a financial crisis ever since their sponsors withdrew in May last year. "We've written letters and approached many potential donors. As of yet, we are still waiting for positive feedback," he said.

Vermont's finance manager Nico de Vos said that the centre provides all meals, medication, accommodation, toiletries, laundry and care to all its residents, at a cost of more than R300 000 a month.

R80 000 shortfall
"We receive a grant from the department of social services of about R140 000 a month. Our income, a portion of which comes from the residents through their Sassa grants, allows us to cover more expenses, but we still have a shortfall of R80 000 every month," said De Vos.

Blaauw and De Vos said a dire situation is unfolding and they are appealing to the community to open their hearts and assist the centre to continue doing the work they do.