Jewish women spread a little cheer

The 38 residents at the Joseph Gerard Old Aged Home in Alexandra, most of whom were found living on the streets and at rubbish dumps before being safely housed at this home, were each given a knitted blanket as well as a gift pack.

This is the third year that the Union of Jewish Women (UJW) had taken part in International Mitzvah Day, and next year they are hoping to involve other faith groups in giving to the less fortunate.

The elderly persons who attend UJW’s daily feeding scheme at the Lutheran Church in Alex also each received a gift, as did the residents of the Queen Alexandra Home in Orange Grove and Age-in-Action clubs.

A Mitzvah is a Hebrew word for a good or positive deed which gave birth to Mitzvah Day, born out of the belief that humanity can make a positive difference to the world by taking action together.

On Mitzvah Day, Jews, as well as people of other religions inspired by the idea, try to improve the world in some small way. People collect and distribute food; sing to and befriend seniors and people who are socially isolated; clean parks and generally try to make a difference. The vision is to reduce hardship and poverty and to bring a little joy where it is needed.

The UJW was thrilled by the public’s response to their appeal for packs of toiletries and chocolates for elderly members of their own and other communities.

This year their aim was to spread a little happiness and bring a smile to the elderly. More than 500 gift packs were donated by members of the public. Pupils from King David Linksfield Junior Primary, Hirsch Lyons Primary and Kimmi’s Playschool also collected items and helped to ensure the success of this project.

The gift packs were handed out to approximately 200 elderly members of the Jewish Community, many of whom live alone in areas such as Hillbrow, Yeoville, Berea and Bellevue. Although most recipients were in their 80s and 90s, one was 101 years old.