The Zamokuhle programme was first launched in 2009 and is focused on senior citizens, giving them a chance to get out and about three times a week and enjoy the company of their peers.
Although the programme is funded by Rand Aid, the organisation has sourced funding from government which has allowed the centre to expand its reach and to invite more senior citizens to join the programme.
It takes place three mornings a week, and currently attracts only women, but according to the organisation’s spokesperson, Cathy Grosvenor, men are also welcome.
“The beneficiaries are taught a variety of handcrafts, like knitting and crocheting and also enjoy morning tea and lunch and benefit from health and social awareness initiatives. If they wish, they attend church services with Thembalami residents on Wednesdays and Fridays,” said Grosvenor.
She added that beneficiaries also join Thembalami in celebrating special occasions like Easter, Mother’s Day and Christmas, and are invited to monthly birthday parties at the care centre.
A bus transports residents from Lombardy East, River Park and Alexandra to and from the centre.
Paulina Hlatshwako, matron at the centre said the programme was also to keep older persons in the community independent and active for as long as possible.
Cynthia Liptz, who heads up Thembalami’s occupational therapy department said she plans to assist the women in making a knitted toy to be handed over to a local orphanage later this year.
The gogos have started a choir and have composed a special song for the centre.
Grosvenor said residents aged 60 years and older are welcome to join the programme.
Details: Lara Hurwitz 011 882 4434.
Watch the video below:
