Grace has been an Abbeyfield resident at Abbeyfield South Africa Society for the past five and a half years, and is currently employed at the Deaf Association where she has worked for the past 30 years.
She is an extremely active lady, enjoying a range of activities including walking, reading, restoring furniture, cooking, knitting, embroidering, and cross-stitching. In addition to this, Grace enjoys beading, since she was introduced to it when she saw a beautiful picture of a swan. She has since completed many beading projects, with her pride and joy displayed on the walls of Bethany Lodge, which include a swan, the Big 5, and a tranquil landscape. The time it takes to complete each of these projects can range from one to two weeks. Knowing Grace, she will certainly produce many more masterpieces like these.
Amongst her many accomplishments, Grace also worked as a hairdresser. She is no doubt, a woman of many talents.
Abbeyfield South Africa told us "Grace is a gentle soul and her talents have not been wasted."
She volunteers at the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation, a cause she holds close to her heart; supporting the organisation through counselling and prayers and annually placing flowers at the Clareinch Post Office where the young murder victim, Uyinene Mrwetyana, lost her life.
Grace's fellow residents help to support her ventures.
As well as her volunteering work with the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation, Grace is currently lending her voice to petition the President so that rape or gender-based violence perpetrators will not be granted bail - a true woman of conviction.
When asked about what Grace liked about living at an Abbeyfield Home means to her, her response was overwhelmingly positive.
"Living with other people means I never feel lonely. I enjoy the companionship the house offers and how residents can do things together and share their stories with each other. Mostly, I enjoy the idea of maintaining my independence. The convenient location of the Abbeyfield house is integral to my happiness. The house is very central, and we don’t need transport to go to the shops. Even the doctor is close by."
The Abbeyfield Society of South Africa team said "We are delighted to have Grace as one of our residents at the Abbeyfield Bethany Lodge in Plumstead."
Next steps
Abbeyfield South Africa
Abbeyfield South Africa (ASA) have 20 wonderful family-style homes that house between 6-10 residents each. Our homes combine independence with support, companionship and security at a price people can afford.
International member societies
From Canada to New Zealand, Australia to South Africa, Abbeyfield has member societies around the world in six countries.
Abbeyfield homes, wherever they are, aim to put something back into their communities. Our staff and volunteers join us with wide-ranging skills and expertise from a variety of industries and professions allowing us to provide the best service to our residents.
Volunteer with Abbeyfield
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Abbeyfield. Our founder Richard Carr-Gomm, our first ever volunteer, gave his time to help lonely and isolated older people. We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities and have countless roles to suit the amount of time you can give. Volunteering roles include gardening, looking after pet hens, befriender, activities assistants, admin support and many more.