Tafta campaign brings cheer to seniors

AS Christmas fast approaches, most people eagerly prepare to share a festive feast and gifts with their loved ones but for the elderly of the city’s care facilities these celebrations are not guaranteed.

Each year, hundreds of senior citizens at Tafta – The Association for the Aged – prepare to spend Christmas without their families. Instead they will rely on the company of staff and other residents for a sense of belonging.

In an effort to bring some much-needed festive joy to its residents, Tafta launched its annual festive cheer box campaign, which allows these elderly folk to enjoy opening a gift of dignity this Christmas.

“The festive season is a difficult period for many of our residents because it is often a reminder of fond memories and being without their loved ones. Tafta makes every effort to ensure that these special people do not feel alone. Something so modest may not seem like much to most people but to the elderly people who can barely recall the last time they felt wanted and appreciated, it means the world,” said Gail Samuels, divisional manager at Income Development, Marketing and Public Relations.

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Through the initiative, sponsors and donors are encouraged to sponsor or provide essential toiletry items for the residents which will be beautifully packaged for the festive season.

Through public generosity, the organisation aims to provide more than 500 senior citizens with a cheer box this year, ensuring that nobody is left without opening a gift this Christmas.

The festive campaign was launched with the aim of making Christmas special for hundreds of elderly folk throughout Durban who would ordinarily have very little to look forward to and welcome the much needed toiletry packs.

“This simple gesture means so much to our residents. It not only allows them to feel included and share in the joy of the season but is a reminder that they are being thought of and cared for. It is extremely rewarding to see the sheer joy that these initiatives bring,” said Samuels.

She urged communities to consider donating items such as toiletries, including body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrush, face towel, bath sponge, hair shampoo, soap, powder, ear buds, Vaseline, body powder, Aqueous cream, razors and adult nappies, as well as groceries such as tinned food, instant cereal, sugar, tea, coffee and instant soup.

Should you wish to donate, contact Ateesha or Fatima on 031 332 3721 or email ateesha@tafta.org.za.

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