The Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged, a non-profit based in Durban, has seen a big drop in food donations which help them feed elderly residents – they are rallying the community to help keep bellies full this festive season.
Durban, South Africa (15 November 2023) – The Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged recently reported a decline of 30% in regular food donations, which is becoming increasingly difficult for the Home to provide comprehensive long-term care to sixty-nine vulnerable elders.
World hunger has increased by 150 million since 2019 to 828 million people in 2021 according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). These shocking statistics follow after the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD) shared their latest food basket data indicating that year-on-year food inflation is at 10.6% for a basket of 44 food items that most South African households buy during the month.
“Imagine not being able to provide food for your family. Sadly, hunger and survival are realities for many South Africans. But imagine battling to provide for 69 frail elders who rely on you for a safe home, food and basic provisions. At Issy Geshen, we experience daily how food security can become a major health crisis,” said Guy Levene, Issy Geshen Chairman.
The Issy Geshen Home, located in Lamontville KZN, provides safe accommodation, nutritional meals, transportation, medical and health care services, including 24-hour nursing care and social services to older persons who are frail and can no longer care for themselves. The Home covers 100% of care expenses for elders and relies on the unwavering support of generous donors.
“It is essential for the elders to eat a balanced diet. They are at risk of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, strokes and heart disease. Energy and protein deficiencies lead to changes in body composition and functions, such as impaired muscle function, decreased bone mass, delayed wound healing, reduced cognitive and immune function, and anaemia, which is why the Home works hard to provide daily nutritious meals,” adds Levene.
The aftermath of the pandemic, an economic slowdown, systemic social injustice, rolling blackouts due to load shedding, high unemployment rate, high inflation, and extreme price hikes on food prices have worsened inequality and increased social vulnerability among frail people.
The Issy Geshen Home understand the changes that the current economic climate might have brought about. Yet, amidst these difficulties, they appeal to people and businesses to support them with food and adult nappy donations. No donation is too small. Be a pivotal part of their mission to care for their family of elders.
To donate and to get involved, contact:
Zinhle Hlubi on 031-469 0247 / 061 488 4811
Email: info@issygeshen.co.za
Visit: www.issygeshen.co.za
For a financial contribution:
Bank name: FNB,
Account holder: Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged,
Account number: 62028136853,
Branch code: 221025.
For your donation, you will receive a Section 18A tax certificate, just email a PoP to the email listed above.
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