The Laudium Care Services for the Aged (LCSA) recently hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM), where members, donors, and community supporters, gathered to reflect on the organization’s progress and discuss future challenges.
Chairperson, Ahmed Arbee, in his opening address, thanked all attendees for their unwavering commitment to supporting the organization’s mission of helping seniors age gracefully and with dignity.
Ahmed highlighted both the achievements and challenges faced over the past year. Of particular concern was the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) decision to cancel the feeding subsidy last year, a critical source of funding for the Care Services’ feeding program for seniors. In response, Mahier Tayob from Tayfin, a generous donor and Hon Patron stepped forward to ensure the program’s continuity, underscoring the community’s dedication to the welfare of the elderly.
However, the Chairperson expressed concerns about the increasing financial pressure on the organization, as many government departments, including Social Development, face stringent budget cuts. These cuts may impact future funding, making it essential for LCSA to enhance its donor outreach efforts and increase its marketing of products created at the centre. In collaboration with the Amrut Foundation, the LCSA Empowerment Centre program will include the proposed production of sanitary pads intended for distribution among learners and other beneficiaries in the townships.
Ahmed emphasized the need to grow the organization’s capacity to secure donor funding to mitigate potential financial shortfalls.
Despite these challenges, the Board of Directors reaffirmed their commitment to LCSA’s mandate to empower seniors to age with dignity. The organization remains dedicated to providing high-quality care and support, regardless of funding difficulties. The Chairperson also announced the postponement of the Annual Golf Day to April 2025 due to a clash of competing events.
The Social Workers’ report detailed the professional services offered to seniors, including an essential outreach program for bedbound beneficiaries. These services, which are at the heart of Care Services’ mission, continue to provide invaluable support to elderly individuals in the community.
The Treasurer’s report provided a glimmer of financial hope, noting a 200% reduction in the organization’s deficit, thanks to ongoing cost-cutting measures. Nevertheless, the Treasurer echoed the Chairperson’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of raising the organization’s profile among potential donors and planning fundraising events to compensate for the anticipated reduction in government funding.
As the meeting concluded, a heartfelt vote of thanks was extended to the donors, community members, the Laudium Sun as media partner, LCSA office bearers, volunteers and seniors present, whose support remains the cornerstone of LCSA’S mission over the past 25 years. “Their continued involvement is vital as the organization navigates the challenging road ahead” said Ahmed.