TAFTA residents relish Christmas spoils

THE Association For the Aged’s (TAFTA) residences were once again blessed by an outpouring of love and support from the Durban community in 2017, which enabled them to host three-course festive meals for a total of 1,800 elders at 22 Tafta residences, clubs and wellness centres in and around Durban.

The sumptuous meals prepared by TAFTA’s own Cook ‘n Care catering facility were a treat for many of the elders who are seldom treated to restaurant-quality meals. Festive cheer rang out in all of the dining halls as old friends got together against the backdrop sponsored entertainment and even a spot of dancing at most venues.

The pièce de résistance to end off the 2017 year was the generous sponsorship of hand-crafted patisserie cakes from Chateau Gateaux to ring in the New Year at all TAFTA residences.

“Chateau Gateaux were delighted to spread some love by sponsoring desserts over the festive season and look forward to another year working with the TAFTA family in 2018,” said Chateau Gateaux marketing manager, Anna Kelly.

“The generous support we receive from the Durban community each year is truly astounding. Most of our aged would never be able to afford a meal like the one provided. Apart from the cost, the logistics involved of purchasing groceries and cooking the meal make this simple tradition a real challenge, especially for our frail and ill elders.”

“Many don’t have family nearby, or else have no family to share a Christmas meal with, so turning our homes into a place of warmth, filled with festive cheer, is really important for us at this time of year,” explained Tafta CEO Femada Shamam.

Ethny Zweers (78) has spent most of her Christmases at TAFTA since becoming a resident in 2010. The mother of three and grandmother of four says her family are a huge part of her everyday life and reach out to her constantly with treats and calls, but are unfortunately not locally based to visit with her. As such, the Christmas period would have been a lot lonelier were it not for the TAFTA community. “I haven’t much close family left in Durban and I’m the last surviving sibling, so I’m quite accustomed to spending my Christmases here with friends. It means the world to me to have the opportunity to come together with others for a Christmas meal and it’s always such a good meal and nice event. It may not be family, but it is as close as can be and we really do appreciate the effort made.”

Apart from festive meals, residents also received cheerboxes from various Durban corporates and foundations such as the Masonic Services, who once again blessed the elders at John Dunn House, John Conradie House, Langeler Towers, Tafta Lodge and St Martin’s Village with hampers for the festive season.

Zweers, a recent recipient of a Christmas cheerbox from the Robin Hood Foundation who visited the TAFTA home this Christmas, said she was amazed at how kind-hearted people are. “I received such an amazing gift from them – far more than I ever anticipated and it really does make one feel so grateful that there are people who want to reach out to others at this time.”

From the TAFTA family to yours, thank you for making Christmas 2017 a special occasion in the homes.