THE Association for the Aged (Tafta) urges Durbanites to support some of its elders who face a gloomy festive period without family or friends.
“Many of our elders 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,” explains Tafta CEO Femada Shamam.
The association thus calls on the public to support their festive campaign called #TaftaSharealittlefestivelove, which includes the purchase of ‘Cheerboxes’ for their elders as well as three-course Christmas meals.
Included in the festive Cheerbox is an essential toiletry hamper, with an extra special gift thrown in as a treat. These usually include chocolates, soft toys and board games. To purchase a Cheerbox or items for the boxes, which will be handed over to the elders, contact Tafta’s Ateesha Rampersad on 031-332-3721 or email info@tafta.org.za.
This year, Tafta will also have a presence at the Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights display to be held between 14 and 30 December. Visitors attending the event will enjoy the festive light display and have an opportunity to support the Tafta campaign.
“We’re calling on those coming through to stop by to listen to an elder read Christmas tales to children, enjoy a Tafta elder ‘teabag of wisdom’ attached to every Christmas fruitcake purchased from Tafta, or drop off an item toward the Cheerbox collection,” explained Tafta income development, public relations and marketing divisional manager Gail Samuels.
She added that Tafta would also have wheelchairs available for pre-booking for those visiting the event with a family member or friend in need. To pre-book, contact Tafta at the number provided.
To donate towards the Tafta Cheerbox or festive meal drive, or hire a wheelchair at the Trail of Lights event, call Ateesha Rampersad on 031-332-3721 or email info@tafta.org.za