Thembalami’s shifting shape excites residents
LINKSFIELD – Thembalami renovations to be finished in December.
Thembalami Care Centre is receiving an early Christmas present. By the time the silly season rolls around, renovations costing over R11 million will be completed.
Residents of the Rand Aid-run care centre are looking forward to a new lounge and dining area for functions and activities and a recreation and activities area for low-functioning residents. In addition, offices for management and staff and two duty rooms are being built.
The renovations were prompted by the merger of the Max Ordman Deaf Association (Moda) with Rand Aid last year. Two wings have been gutted and are in the process of being rebuilt to create inviting spaces for Moda residents.
Ayanda Matthews, general manager of Compliance and Social React Division, explained that Rand Aid was approached by Moda for assistance when they realised that the existence of their home was threatened by financial woes and its sustainability was in the balance. “An agreement was reached to take control of the management of the home by Rand Aid, and thus the move to Thembalami,” she explained.
Construction got under way on 1 July this year.
“The morale of staff and residents is high. The recreation area will be very good for sensory stimulation of the residents and get them out of their rooms. Aesthetically, the look of Thembalami will be improved,” added Matthews.
Within the last few months, a new entrance and guard gate have been built and work has been ongoing over the past few years to upgrade and brighten wings and corridors within the sprawling care centre. “Renovation of the rest of Thembalami will follow once the Moda residents are comfortably accommodated in their newly refurbished rooms.
“I am very excited about the developments as most of our residents are government pensioners who do not have much to cover basic needs, let alone the luxury of having a recreation and activities room. We are thankful and welcome all the assistance we have received to see this project through.”
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