The hospice’s Diane van Dyk says the NGO has been servicing areas including Hibberdene, Umzumbe and Port Edward for forty years.

Van Dyk says they’ve already had to close their inpatient facility in Port Shepstone to contain costs.

They now visit 80 chronically ill people in their homes and 70 living with mental health challenges.

“South Coast Hospice has hit a bit of a brick wall with regards to cash flow, and we are in danger of having to do that, and we’re continuing with the work despite the retrenchment that we have done, which is very painful.”

Van Dyk says so far, they’ve managed to raise R80,000 through fundraising activities, which include gift wrapping for the festive season.

“To anyone who has experienced any form of care and compassion for those that are in need. My message is just to please share even if it’s R10, R200. We would be so grateful. We realise very much the power of community. Without community, this would not be a community hospice, and I have an urgent plea to please help.”