The El Roi Tabernacle of Hope hosted a special pamper day for the senior citizens of Deneys Conradie Residential on July 25, aimed at combating social isolation and reminding older persons they are valued and appreciated.

Church members and volunteers treated the residents to fresh hairdos before entertaining them with music, dancing and fun games. The celebrations were rounded off with a hearty meal of chicken biryani and soup.

Residents also enjoyed spending time together, sharing their life stories and experiences with the volunteers.

Resident Vichie Hendricks (69) thanked the church for remembering them.

“It’s so good for the church to come here, spend time with us and show us love because many of us are old and can’t go out. Some are ill, and it’s such a blessing to have all these people here. We are grateful,” she said.

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Priscilla Lazarus (68) echoed those sentiments, saying the church’s visit had made a meaningful difference.

“We want to thank El Roi for organising this special day for our elderly. We love entertainment, dancing and singing, and we also enjoy sharing with others. Having the church come here has made a big impact on our people,” Lazarus said.

Hendricks encouraged the community to make time for older people, saying many often feel isolated and unappreciated despite the contributions they have made to society.

“It’s important to show love, understanding and compassion towards elderly people and to know what they go through. People must support us and come to visit because some children no longer come here to check on their parents,” she said.

Pastor Barney Emanuel said the church organised the event to give back to the community’s senior citizens.

“We are giving back to our parents. They’ve given so much to their families and communities, and we decided that on this day we wanted to honour and celebrate them,” he said.

“We want them to know that they are seen, appreciated and valued. We are here to thank them for all the years they spent caring for and nurturing us.”

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