Transformation at Thembalami
The centre was initially housed in a huge once rundown building, but it is bright and welcoming today.
Rand Aid’s Thembalami Care Centre has transformed remarkably over the past decade.
The centre was initially housed in a huge once run-down building, but it is bright and welcoming today.
“The building was fairly dilapidated and the environment did nothing to lift the spirits of our more vulnerable residents.
“The change has been more than physical. The residents are happier and more interactive than they were in previous years,” said Elize Raath, Thembalami’s manager.
Residents Tony O’Shea, Aiden Muthukrishna and Heather Abrams organised an initiative to make new residents feel at home.
Together with the transformation of the centre, there was an introduction of the Eden Alternative Philosophy. The philosophy redesigned the experience of residents.
“Today there is a greater sense of community at Thembalami. There is always something going on,” said Elize.
About 120 people live at the centre, which also accommodates the Max Ordman Deaf Association.
The centre has a large food garden, a dam with viewing benches, outdoor lapas and walking paths which make for enjoyable visits by residents’ family members and friends.
