RARE FLYERS will be running the Ramsey Half Marathon on the 11 August to raise funds to help the Friends of KDH. Having grown up in South Africa, this charity is close to our hearts.

Khayelitsha, meaning ‘New Home’ in Xhosa, emerged as the largest and fastest-growing township in the Western Cape, South Africa. Covering approximately 40 square kilometres, it houses between 1.5 and 2 million residents, many in informal dwellings. Unfortunately, socio-economic challenges prevail, with over half of households facing poverty.

Khayelitsha District Hospital (KDH), inaugurated in April 2012, serves as a lifeline for the community, addressing healthcare needs amid economic hardships, advanced age, and disabilities. Despite its decade-long presence, the hospital faces challenges, including staff and equipment shortages, exacerbated by continuous patient influx.

Friends of KDH, established in 2023, supports KDH patients and staff. We aim to bridge healthcare gaps, elevate facilities, and empower staff through training. Led by a compassionate midwife, our efforts extend beyond governmental resources.

Our focus lies on enhancing facilities and capacity-building interventions, ensuring dignified care for patients and staff. The current project's we are targeting include:

The transformation of a disused space into a Therapeutic Play Area, benefiting children awaiting treatment at the Paediatric Outpatient Department (POPD).The envisioned Play Area aims to create a welcoming, interactive space for children and carers, promoting social and physical development despite illness. By making play inclusive and accessible, we aim to improve follow-up attendance rates and enhance staff working conditions.

Birth Companion Project – this project trains women from the Khayelitsha community to support and care for Labouring and birthing women that access the hospital. With specific emphasis on the teenage mother. This project is having a profoundly positive impact on many levels, not least of all on the women’s experience of birth.

Revitalising of the Mental Health Ward – our mental health ward is filled beyond capacity at all times. The area is uninspiring and does not facilitate recovery and mental health in an optimal manner. The project will revitalise the area, make it a warm, comforting, healing place.

Join us in supporting the realization of these vital project's. Your contribution will make a difference in the lives of the Khayelitsha community.

Check out KDH's socials below:

Website

Instagram

The beautiful artwork done by: Claudia Treagus

Thank you again for your donation,

Andy, Brent, Vaughan & Dan