Elderly benefit from Zamokuhle
The beneficiaries are taught a variety of handcrafts, such as knitting and crocheting, enjoy morning tea and lunch, and benefiting from health and social awareness initiatives.
Singing, laughter and the clinking of tea cups could be heard at the Thembalami Care Centre on March 12, during the Zamokuhle open day.
The Rand Aid Association-run care centre started an outreach programme in 2009, focused on giving older people from nearby Alexandra and River Park the chance to get out of the house three times a week and enjoy the company of their peers.
Zamokuhle, which means, “Yes, I can” in Zulu, is funded by Rand Aid which is also non-profit organisation. Government funding has now been requested to help subsidise the initiative.
This has allowed Thembalami to expand the programme and invite additional older people to join in the fun. The programme takes place three mornings a week.
The beneficiaries are taught a variety of handcrafts, such as knitting and crocheting, enjoy morning tea and lunch, and benefiting from health and social awareness initiatives.
The ‘gogos’ who are currently part of Zamokuhle have started a choir and they love to entertain whenever the occasion allows it.
They have even composed a special song in honour of Thembalami.
Residents of Alexandra, Lombardy, Lyndhurst and Edenvale who are 60 years or older can call Ms Lara Hurwitz at Thembalami on 011 882-4434 if they are interested in becoming part of Zamokuhle.
Members of the community who may wish to donate materials for arts and craft activities, are also asked to contact Ms Hurwitz.
