With Nelson Mandela Day falling on a Saturday this year, The Association for the Aged (Tafta) is calling on Durban’s communities to dedicate their 67 minutes of service to improving the lives of older persons through its Sisonke ‘We Are Together’ campaign.

The initiative invites businesses, schools, faith-based organisations, families and community groups to volunteer their time, donate goods, sponsor projects or share professional skills to support older persons living in Tafta’s residential, care and community facilities.

For 68 years, Tafta has provided care, support and accommodation to older persons. This Mandela Day, the organisation hopes to strengthen community partnerships while addressing some of the practical needs across its 13 facilities. Tafta Chief Executive Officer, Femada Shamam, said Mandela Day highlights the power of collective action.

“Sisonke means ‘we are together,’ and that is exactly what this campaign represents. Every act of kindness, whether it is donating an item, sponsoring a project, volunteering a skill or simply giving your time, contributes towards creating environments where older persons can continue living with dignity, independence and a sense of belonging. Together, we have the power to make a lasting difference.”

Also Read: Tafta launches elder abuse hotline

Supporters can contribute in several ways, including sponsoring mobility equipment, furniture and facility upgrades, donating services such as painting, maintenance, landscaping and security improvements, or contributing essential items that improve residents’ comfort and wellbeing.

Among the current Sisonke Legacy Projects are plans to improve WiFi connectivity at Cambridge Gardens, upgrade frail care facilities at John Conradie House, replace kitchen and office cupboards at Tafta Park Care Cottage, and install a new entrance gate at St Martin’s Village.

Shamam said the campaign is designed to create relationships that extend beyond a single day of service.

“Some of the most meaningful relationships begin with a single conversation. Whether support takes the form of one volunteer day, a donation, or an ongoing partnership, every contribution strengthens our ability to provide quality care and create spaces where older persons feel valued, respected and connected.”

Individuals and organisations interested in supporting the campaign can contact Tafta for more information on how to get involved.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here