Volunteers brought cheer and laughter to the residents of Thembalami Care Centre and the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) during a recent visit.

On September 18, residents and staff welcomed a team from logistics and shipping company DHL, led by Cindy Carolus.

Filled with laughter and joy, the day was made memorable as residents and staff interacted with volunteers.

ALSO READ: Thembalami and MODA welcome spring with inclusive day of fun

On September 18, residents and staff welcomed a team from logistics and shipping company DHL, led by Cindy Carolus.

The day began with staff from Thembalami, MODA and DHL forming a listening circle to stand in solidarity with women across South Africa.

This comes after the several murders of women in the greater Ekurhuleni area and renewed national outcry over gender-based violence and femicide.

“The circle provided a safe and supportive space to acknowledge the grief and fear caused by these events, listen to one another and find strength in community during this difficult time,” said Thembalami manager Esme van der Walt.

ALSO READ: Thembalami residents enjoy music, dancing at Women’s Day lunch

With Thembalami and MODA preparing for an upcoming open day, the volunteers helped get the facility ready by painting flower pots, adding colour and a cheerful touch to the surroundings.

They will also donate paint for future projects to enhance the facilities’ aesthetics.

The volunteers also donated beanies they knitted themselves.

Lunch, prepared by In the Kitchen catering company, was served to residents and staff before everyone played Bingo and other games.

“The DHL staff ate with residents and enjoyed making new connections with our elderly,” said Esme.
Tsakani Shihlomule, occupational therapist at Thembalami Care Centre, said the games created plenty of opportunities for social interaction and laughter.