In 1966, Sister Koen, a qualified midwife working in Gansbaai, sold her sewing machine for R10 and expressed the hope that this small contribution would one day help establish the town’s own old age home. With the support of the Gansbaai community, that dream became a reality. Herberg-Aan-See officially opened its doors on 9 March 1974.
Today, the home remains deeply committed to its founding mission: to serve and care, guided by our vision and values.
For non-profit organisations, delivering sustainable and efficient services has become increasingly challenging. Communities are under financial pressure, and funding for welfare initiatives is steadily decreasing. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global lockdown underscored the importance of sound cash flow management and the need for independence from state reliance.
Herberg-Aan-See is led by a visionary Governing Board and supported by a capable management team. The manager’s active engagement with families, the community, and local projects plays a vital role in the home’s continued success. Board members and the manager are regularly present at fundraising events, helping to build personal relationships with families, donors, women’s groups, churches, and the local press.
It is our practice that management or board members personally thank every donor. We believe that generosity should be matched with gratitude and a willingness to give in return.
Effective financial planning has been central to managing available resources and identifying opportunities to meet local needs. A clear demand for upgraded facilities, male accommodation, and modernised communal spaces prompted the development of a new business plan.
Recent upgrades include:
- Conversion of four storage rooms into liveable male units, now generating R40,704 per month in rental income.
- Transformation of the staff room into a communal bathroom for male residents, including wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Admission of our first fully sponsored male SASSA resident, supported by two donors.
- Renovation of double flats, resulting in an additional R47,190 per month in income.
- Contributions of R80,000 per new resident toward flat upgrades, supported by Section 18A tax certificates. The home funded the remaining balance.
Improved security at the main entrance and front residential area was also completed in 2024. The funding for this long-anticipated upgrade was raised by our volunteer group, the Golden Hands, which began the campaign five years ago. The group maintains strong ties with the NG Church Gansbaai, with most members belonging to the congregation.
We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who plays a role in shaping the heart and future of Herberg-Aan-See. Your kindness, dedication, and unwavering support help create an environment where dignity, care, and companionship flourish.
To our volunteers, donors, staff, and residents: your contributions, large or small, make a lasting impact. Whether through donations, compassionate service, or the simple gift of a smile, your efforts enrich the lives of those we serve in immeasurable ways.
We also extend sincere gratitude to the wider community, local businesses, and partner organisations whose ongoing support ensures that our home remains a place of warmth and belonging. It is through shared dedication and partnership that we continue moving forward with confidence, ready to embrace new opportunities.
Together, we are creating a home built on love, respect, and hope.
From the depths of our hearts, thank you for believing in us and being part of this journey.
It takes a village to raise a child, however it takes a community to successfully sustain a home for older persons.
