Western Cape public hospitals handle more than 1.68 million outpatient visits and close to a million emergency visits in a year. And while these numbers paint the picture of a strained healthcare system, a small charity shop at New Somerset Hospital is proving that extra support can make a world of difference.
Cape Town, South Africa (20 October 2026) – When public healthcare is under pressure, with long queues, tight supplies, and dedicated staff working tirelessly around the clock, it’s small initiatives and community efforts that can mean everything.
At New Somerset Hospital, a tiny charity shop is making a remarkably big impact. The shop’s coordinator, Tasmin Heuvel, sees this need firsthand every day.
“Across the Western Cape, public hospitals care for over 1.68 million outpatient visits and nearly a million emergency visits in a single year,” she shares.
“Behind every single number is a person depending on our care.”
While government funding is essential for providing healthcare, the extra support raised by the charity shop contributes towards additional things that can make a real difference to patients, families and the staff caring for them.
“Each rand raised has the potential to become something meaningful – whether it helps to provide equipment, improve an area of the hospital, support patients, or simply make someone’s experience a little more comfortable,” explains Tasmin.
Tasmin has been volunteering at New Somerset for almost 20 years – a role she says has become a very special part of her life.
“I have met so many wonderful people – patients, families, doctors, nurses, support staff and fellow volunteers – and each experience has taught me something. Being around the hospital has made me realise how much kindness, compassion and community support can mean to someone who may be going through a difficult time.”
She notes that she’s seen the charity shop initiative support both patients and staff.
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Stock currently comes from community and business support and significantly helps keep the shop going.
“Items give us an opportunity to raise funds. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who takes the time to donate good-quality items. Donations from businesses are also valuable to us because they give us a wider variety of products to offer in the shop.”
Things that sell well include good-quality ornaments, home décor, kitchenware, crockery, glassware, picture frames, vases, small household items and collectables.
“We also welcome interesting or unusual pieces. You never know what little treasure someone might be looking for,” she says, appealing to people to have a look around their homes before throwing things away.
Children’s items are also welcome, provided they are clean, safe and in good condition.
“We particularly welcome good-quality children’s toys, books, clothing, puzzles, games and blankets. These can be especially meaningful because they can bring a little comfort, distraction and happiness to children and families who may be going through a difficult time.”
For this dedicated volunteer, every donation, purchase, and hour of volunteering contributes to a worthwhile cause, and it is rewarding to see how these small efforts can make a meaningful difference.
“We would love to see more people from the community supporting the shop.”
Members of the public are welcome to drop off donations directly at the Somerset Hospital charity shop during operating hours. This includes clothing, bric-a-brac, books, toys, household items and other good-quality goods, as well as donations from businesses.
With that spirit of giving in mind, Good Things Guy and The Helpers are challenging South Africans to spread a little help and kindness where it’s really needed just in time for Christmas. Gifting your gently used items today might just be the best thing you do all season!
To donate or volunteer, email Tasmin at [email protected]
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