Residents of Ratanda Old Age Home were treated to a heartwarming Mandela Day celebration as the Heidelberg and District Taxi Association Women’s League dedicated more than 67 minutes to spreading kindness, compassion and hope among the elderly.

The outreach formed part of the annual Nelson Mandela Day campaign, which encourages South Africans to give back to their communities through acts of service.

Members of the Women’s League visited the home, bearing gifts of new socks, fresh fruit, and sweets, before spending quality time with the residents through conversation, laughter, and companionship.

The visit created a warm and cheerful atmosphere, with many residents expressing their appreciation for the thoughtful gesture and the opportunity to spend time with visitors who made them feel valued and remembered.

HDTA chairperson Tshepo Molaba commended the Women’s League for honouring the elderly and emphasised the important role they have played in shaping society.

“Our elders are the foundation of our families and communities. They worked tirelessly, made countless sacrifices and helped shape the generations that followed.

“We can never repay them for everything they have done, but we can show them love, respect and appreciation through our actions. Mandela Day reminds us that giving back is everyone’s responsibility, and I encourage our communities to continue caring for and supporting our senior citizens every day of the year, not only on Mandela Day,” he said.

The HDTA Women’s League thanked everyone who contributed to the outreach’s success and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable members of the community through acts of kindness and service.

The organisation said it hopes the initiative will inspire others to continue embracing the spirit of Ubuntu by caring for the elderly and making a positive difference in their communities throughout the year.