At the end of last year we completed a very successful alteration to the cottage. We converted a “not often used sunroom” into a very nice bedroom-en-suite.  Fundraising as well as generous donations paid for this alteration which enabled us to accommodate David, a previous part-time member of the Hope House family. 

On the garden side three exciting new beginnings were born.

1. Kim Budge of the UK kindly donated the proceeds of funds made from the selling of plants when she opened her beautiful garden to the public.  Using these funds and the professional expertise of Susanne Kilpen we were able to start developing the garden behind the cottage.

2.  Susan Miller, with the help of the residents created a flourishing vegetable garden which the residents enjoy. They are committed to watering the garden in the hot summer months which gives them a sense of achievement as well as experiencing the joy of working with nature. Susan has also started a sculpture garden, which is a water wise project allowing the residents to show their creatitivity. 

3. John Suart of “Growing Stacks” donated a very exciting multistory planter. This has been an exciting new project for the residents to grow their own herbs outside the kitchen door!

Sadly we had to say a few good-byes. We thank both Estelle Jordaan (Trustee) and Elise Burns-Hoffman (Occupational Therapist) for their excellent work, professionalism and enthusiasm in assisting us in Hope House and their ongoing interest and support. We wish Brenda Bodde happiness in her retirement and thank her for the kindness and concern shown to the residents. A big thank you to Mariam Samodien for all her assistance on the accounts side and the many hours she spent on unraveling the mysteries of the accounting system to me.

This has resulted in a few changes in the Hope House Team. We are delighted that Grant Mackintosh joined us as a Trustee, Bonita Daniels as the new manager and Simone Williams on the accounting side.They have added their special personal skills and the house is the richer for having them on board.

In August Dr Peter Smith, psychiatrist and Trustee of Hope House gave a talk on “The Story of Hope House” at Valkenberg Hospital. Psychiatrists, Doctors and the general public were invited.  It was a very proud moment for us.  

The generosity of the public continues to overwhelm me. Apart from monetary donations we receive donations in kind and so many give of their time to assist our cause.

The residents continue to enjoy generous food donations from the Eileen Richardt’s Woolworths Home Store at the Engen Garage, Meadowridge. We thanks all the volunteers who regularly collect the Wednesday and Saturday food donations.
 
KRAZYBOYZ DIGITAL HAVE KINDLY DONATED US A WEBSITE – WATCH THIS SPACE IN 2012 - http://hopehousetrust.co.za. 

Betty Solomon donated one of her beautiful paintings which was raffled for fundraising. 

On Thursdays you’ll find either Ali or Michelle Berrange putting the residents through their paces first on the exercise bikes and later on the mats doing either aerobics or yoga.  We thank them for giving of their time and for encouraging the residents to keep up their fitness.  

Lizette Nash, once again, opened her home for the annual book sale and many delighted readers left with packets filled with bargain books.  This year the sale extended until late in the afternoon and shoppers were able to choose between delicious cakes with their tea or sushi and snacks with a glass of wine. An amazing R11000.00 was made on the day with a further R2500.00 made from books sold at Open Day. Donations of books are always welcomed, through out the year. 

Our annual Open Day in November, a highlight for all the residents, was a great success with Peak Drive parked to capacity. The residents produced a variety of excellent home made goods and many bargains were on sale on our rummage and book stands. It was gratifying to see our visitors either enjoying the delicious teas and cakes produced by our housemother, Talita or wandering through the property seeing what Hope House has to offers.  Although all the residents had their own personal stalls, Sue, our skills therapist had a stall showing many of the stunning articles the residents had made during the year.

Finally, and most important, our residents are happy and stable.  Hope House has become their home and they appreciate and enjoy what the house offers and the good care they receive.  They relate well to each other, have become good friends and are supportive. Their days are filled with varied activities, both creative and physical and Sue has encouraged them to develop their own skills. 

Sue, Brenda and Talita took them on exciting and varied outings which they thoroughly enjoyed.

On behalf of the Trustees, staff and residents of Hope House I thank you for your continued support and interest in Hope House. We also take this opportunity of wishing you happiness, good health and joy in 2012.

With best wishes
Jess