The Establishment of the Bellville Senior Centre
In the late 1980s, the need for a dedicated service centre for senior citizens became evident. Initially, the first service centre of the Christian Social Council (CMR) operated out of the Bellville “Moedergemeente” church hall. However, after the church hall was sold in 1994, the centre was relocated to two different buildings—a house and an additional structure that were subsequently sold to a lawyer and demolished. This transition highlighted the necessity for larger, more accommodating facilities.
In response, the Goeie Hoop Housing Company was approached by the Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church and CMR to develop a more expansive community centre. This project culminated in the creation of a new centre for seniors, which was officially inaugurated from Sunday, 3 October to Saturday, 9 October 1993.
Constructed at a cost of R2 million, the new Centre for Seniors, located at the corner of Teddington and De Lange Street, featured modern facilities designed to cater to all the needs of the elderly. Mrs. Elsa Lombard served as the centre’s manager. The project was advertised as a “Chance of a lifetime – carefree old age!”
The development of Erf 15452 Chrismar, Bellville, involved key members of the Building Committee, including Mrs. E. van der Westhuizen (Centre Manager), Rev. S. Esterhuizen (Chairman of the Control Board), Mrs. A. du Toit (Head of the Home Care Department), and Mr. H. Gerber (Control Board Member).
Control and Management of Bellville Senior Centre
Initially, Bellville Senior Centre focused solely on providing services to the elderly. The addition of Chrismar Villas significantly expanded its services. Goeie Hoop Behuisingsmaatskappy (GHBM), a registered Section 21 company, owns Chrismar Villas. While the Management Board is not a statutory owners’ association and has limited powers and obligations, it plays a crucial role in managing the resort and acts as a liaison between residents and the GHBM Board. Badisa delivers services to members, and all Chrismar Villas residents are members.
A resident and former Governing Body member for over ten years emphasises the importance of a harmonious relationship between the Manager, Governing Board, and residents. Mutual trust is essential, stemming from commitment and competence. Transparency and openness are vital for building trust; residents want to be informed and engaged. Effective communication is a cornerstone of this relationship.
Reliability and predictability are also crucial. Consistency in management’s messaging and actions prevents anxiety and insecurity, particularly among older residents. Lastly, fairness in dealing with residents is paramount. Equality ensures that what applies to one applies to all, with no favouritism or unfair treatment.
Chrismar Villas Today
We are blessed to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Chrismar Villas. We thank the Lord for His care and preservation, giving Him all the glory. Typically, a 21st birthday marks entry into adulthood. However, our residents have navigated adulthood many times over. Despite this, the vast majority remain engaged and actively use their gifts and talents.
Our main building hosts numerous services, with many managed and maintained by residents themselves. These include the library, handcraft group, various Bible study groups, table games, snooker, our own band, and the quarterly newsletter, Hartklop. Major fundraising events like the Bazaar and Farmyard function are largely run by volunteer residents and staff. These events build relationships, draw people out of their homes, and foster a spirit of cooperation and joy at the Villas.
Residents also participate in various committees, working alongside the Governing Board and excellent staff to ensure the smooth operation of Chrismar Villas and the Bellville Senior Centre.
About 14 years ago, the Manager wrote in a newspaper article: “The centre is a one-stop service with a service centre, retirement home, and a debilitated section, striving to meet all the needs of older people. For seniors, the centre is like a safety net and insurance policy. If they fall ill and are alone, they know there is bed washing, home care service, and social activities available to them.”
Although our mission remains unchanged, the rising costs of services and accommodation make it increasingly unaffordable for many seniors, necessitating more fundraisers to sustain our operations.
