What began in 1960 as a humble act of compassion by a small group of volunteers has grown into a pillar of hope and sustainability for the elderly in Lamontville and beyond.
Durban, South Africa (07 October 2025) – This October marks an extraordinary milestone for the Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged: 65 years of service, dignity and care for some of the most vulnerable members of our society!
Founded during an era of deep inequality, the home was established in 1960 to provide a safe, nurturing space for Black pensioners.
It was the late Mr Issy Geshen, a man of profound conviction, who led this vision alongside dedicated community volunteers, igniting a legacy that would uplift thousands of lives over the decades.
From its modest beginnings, the Home has not only survived but triumphed through political upheaval, economic downturns and social transformation. It has remained resolute in its mission to provide holistic care, dignity and belonging to elders who might otherwise be forgotten.
Over the years, the Home has faced numerous challenges, from limited resources and ageing infrastructure to the rising demands of specialised elder care. Yet, at every turn, it has risen stronger, guided by the belief that every elder deserves love, respect and support.
Most recently, through the support of loyal donors, the Home has opened a dedicated Dementia Care Unit, a transformative step in meeting the growing needs of residents facing cognitive decline. This new unit embodies not only clinical excellence but also emotional intelligence, providing elders with a sense of comfort, familiarity and compassionate engagement. It is a reflection of the Home’s evolution into a modern, responsive care facility that honours its history while embracing the future.
“This milestone is both a celebration and a commitment,” says Guy Levene, Chairperson of the Issy Geshen Lamont Home.
“It’s a celebration of the many lives touched over the past 65 years and a renewed commitment to ensure that every elder entrusted to our care continues to live with dignity, purpose and peace. We are immensely proud of our staff, elders and our supporters who make this legacy possible every single day.”
The heartbeat of Issy Geshen Lamont Home has always been its people – the devoted staff who serve with integrity and tenderness, the elders whose wisdom and strength are woven into the Home’s identity and the broader community whose solidarity has never waned.
MaZulu, a 68-year-old resident, shares her experience at the Hime.
“Since I arrived at Issy Geshen Home, I feel like I’ve been given a second family. The nurses know my name, they listen to my stories, and they make me feel seen. I didn’t think I’d find such love and care at this age, but here, I am living with joy and dignity.”
The generosity of ongoing support of donors and partners, individuals, corporations, foundations and faith-based groups has funded nutritious meals, medical care, training for caregivers, infrastructure upgrades and the very dignity that every elder at the home experiences daily through the decades.
In the words of the Home’s leadership:
“We are not just marking 65 years of existence, we are celebrating 65 years of purpose, partnership and progress. This is not only our story; it is South Africa’s story of resilience, Ubuntu and shared humanity.”
As South Africa confronts the complexities of an ageing population and increasing care needs, Issy Geshen Lamont Home invites the public, policymakers and media to engage more deeply with the realities of elder care in our country.
This 65-year celebration is a moment to reflect, to honour and to reimagine how we care for our elders. The Home will be hosting a series of activities, donor appreciation days and awareness campaigns throughout the year to shine a light on elder rights, palliative care and intergenerational solidarity.
For more information, call Zinhle Hlubi on 031 469 0247 or visit the Issy Geshen Lamont Home Facebook page.
Sources: Supplied
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