From soothing massages and spirited games to freshly painted rooms, warm blankets and much-needed groceries, Mandela Day became a week-long celebration of generosity at Thembalami Care Centre and the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA).
Several businesses visited the Rand Aid care centre in Lombardy East to mark Mandela Day by giving back through donations, volunteer work and spending quality time with residents.
Occupational therapist Tsakani Shihlomule said the celebrations on July 17 brought relaxation, fun and meaningful social interaction to residents. “We were privileged to welcome Sheer Bliss, led by Sandra Freire, and the Adreach team, led by Kim Willoughby, who helped make the day extra special,” she says.
Sheer Bliss treated residents and staff to relaxing massage sessions, providing a calming experience that promoted well-being.
Meanwhile, the Adreach team joined residents for a variety of games, including bingo, tumbling tower, snakes and ladders, Rummikub and chess, creating opportunities for laughter and cognitive stimulation. The company also donated cakes, snacks, new blankets and socks before everyone gathered for tea.
Thembalami deputy manager Elize Raath says another group of volunteers from Ivanhoe Mines rolled up their sleeves to give parts of the care centre a fresh new look. About 30 employees spent the day painting three bedrooms and one of the smaller TV lounges.
“They enjoyed every minute of it. Some arrived dressed in their smart work clothes but left covered in paint, with huge smiles on their faces,” says Elize.
She adds that the company donated all the remaining paint and equipment, allowing the maintenance team to continue refreshing other areas of the care centre.
The generosity continued on July 18 when employees from Pick n Pay Greenstone visited residents with cakes and refreshments to enjoy during morning tea. The supermarket also donated essential groceries, including maize meal, rice, cooking oil, baked beans, coffee, tea, sugar and milk.
Sister Rumbi Chatikobo, who co-ordinated the visit, says residents thoroughly enjoyed the occasion. And were ‘properly spoilt’. According to the Pick n Pay team, the visit was their way of showing appreciation for the older generation and the legacy they have left for younger South Africans.
