Oldies treated to Christmas cheer
Volunteers took the time to spend Christmas day with elderly persons who were unable to be with family.
Inspired by the actions of a former musician, Elzabe Barnard from Garden Monroe rallied the support of local businesses to share the spirit of Christmas with the elderly.
Armed with hearty festive food, gifts and loving embraces, volunteers visited four local old age homes including Eddy House (Benoni), Ridgeview Retirement Village (Boksburg), Brenthurst Huis vir Bejaardes (Brakpan) and Ebenhaesar Home for the Aged (Brakpan) on December 25.
“Years ago, the musician Berrie de Bruin would tell how he would visit various old age homes, performing for the residents,” said Elzabe.
“During one visit, he handed out individually-packed biscuits, which instantly brought tears to the eyes of one of the grateful recipients. This was the first gift she received in years.”
Touched by the tale, Elzabe, a Boksburg-based business owner, regularly visits local homes.
“This past Christmas visit was one of the biggest I had endeavoured. We visited all four homes simultaneously and could spoil many elderly persons,” she said.
Barnard said the elderly were great sources of information and inspiration.
“These people have seen the world change at a rapid pace, but have also experienced life at a slower pace. They have overcome great adversities and possess a wealth of knowledge,” she said.
“Younger generations have so much to learn from them and regular visits add to the quality of life for grannies and grandpas, often forgotten.”
Barnard said caring for the elderly should be encouraged all year round and appealed to businesses, religious institutions and schools to become more involved.
“Facilities caring for the aged often face financial constraints that may lead to maintenance projects not being tended to timeously,” she said.
“Whether it is painting a wall or cleaning gutters, everyone can assist in some way. All that is needed is the will to help.”
Barnard thanked those who assisted in this project 93.9fm, News Café Boksburg, Buzzee Bee Aluminium, Paintworx and Orhan Engineering.
She hopes to soon launch a project which will see businesses and members of the public ‘adopt-a-grandparent.’
