The festive spirit was alive across Rand Aid retirement villages in December, with residents coming together to celebrate Christmas through music, fellowship and shared meals.

At Thembalami Care Centre, residents were treated to a special carol singing visit on December 18.

Thornhill Manor residents Gavin Standing and Trevor and Val Corin led the gathering, bringing familiar Christmas hymns and messages of hope to the audience.

The trio shared that they enjoy spreading the message of Christmas wherever possible. Thembalami occupational therapist Tsakani Shihlomule said Standing recited the story of the birth of Jesus, thoughtfully weaving the carols into the narrative and creating a meaningful and uplifting experience for residents.

Also read: Festive celebration unites residents and staff at Thembalami and MODA

Meanwhile, at Rand Aid’s Inyoni Creek retirement village, the Gentlemen Only Ladies Forbidden (GOLF) social group hosted its final event of the year, ending 2025 on a high note with its traditional bring-and-braai evening, affectionately known as Vlam en Vleis.

The well-attended event took place at the village clubhouse, where Clive Cubitt, assisted by Gordon Roberts, ensured the fires were well prepared. Inyoni Creek staff member Merlin Thape supported the event by assisting with venue set-up.

Village manager Jenny Tonkin praised Thape’s ongoing contribution to village life, noting her role in event preparation, meal deliveries and assisting residents with transport to on-site health services.

Both gatherings reflected the strong sense of community across the villages, as residents and staff came together to celebrate the festive season and bid farewell to the year in a spirit of warmth and togetherness.

Les Rosenthal, Bill Bergmanm and Stan Savitz