Grannies ‘adopted’ in style.
Grade 11 learners from Springs Muslim School made use of the opportunity to assist 20 senior citizens from Bakerton on a shopping spree as part of the Adopt a Granny project on Wednesday. This school recently joined the South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF) Adopt a Granny project, currently in its third year.
These learners accompanied grannies to Palm Springs on a shopping spree where each granny received a R1 000 clothing voucher sponsored by Springs businessman Ismail Jogie.
Businessman Roshid Ahmed Sibda sponsored a scrumptious lunch.
This project is in its third year and forms part of SANZAF’s Operation Winter Warmth Campaign.
ZANZAF is a socio-welfare and educational organisation which has partnered with more than 20 schools nationally.
According to teacher Muniera Choughley, this initiative does more than just satisfy the material needs of the senior citizens.
“It also about extending a hand of compassion and love to the older people and to make them feel special.”
The grannies all purchased clothing items of their choice, assisted by the learners.
Muniera says their school has identified and “adopted” 20 grannies from Bakerton, as well as matched two learners per granny to accompany them on a subsidised shopping spree.
There was excitement among the grannies when they entered the clothing store where the learners and staff members were ready to assist them with their choice of clothes.
Amina Loonat (75), one of the group of 20 grannies, says they appreciate all the love they received, which money just can’t buy.
She says most of the group grew up together and share a special bond.
Miriam Mnguni (63) was overwhelmed by the hospitality and friendliness of everyone involved.
She opted to buy clothes for her granddaughter, who is currently residing with her, rather than for herself.
The organisers feel their aim to create awareness of the needs of the elderly and building social skills among the learners was accomplished.
