Share a ‘blessing bag’ this Christmas
To take part in the initiative residents were asked to 'build' blessing bags for the elderly.
Community UPlift, a local NPO founded by Durban North residents Jackie and Mark Gaines, have challenged the community to share the Christmas spirit by taking part in their annual Jingle Bell Project.
To take part in the initiative residents were asked to ‘build’ blessing bags for the elderly, containing toiletries, treats and other goodies to spoil the senior citizens. All goodie bags will be going to the residents of Natal Settlers Home in Umbilo where the organisation will be hosting a Christmas party on 12 December.
“Residents can also pop in a Christmas card to personalise their gift bag. These completed bags can be dropped off at the Durban North Baptist Church, @Tap Community Centre, or @Tap Coffee Corner from Mondays to Saturdays,” said Jackie.
Volunteers interested in spending time collecting parcels or assisting on the day with food, music, transport or just spending time with the elderly are welcome and urged to contact the organisation as soon as possible.
Reverend Jan Maré, of the Durban North Baptist Church urged the community to support the initiative. “To quote John Holmes, ‘There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up’,” he said.
Jackie added that their charity work began with the Jingle Bell Project to assist those in need during the festive season but throughout the year their projects have grown, which motivated them to rebrand their organisation to Community Uplift. Contact Jackie or Mark on 084 823 9517 or via e-mail on info@communityuplift.co.za.
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