Chantelle old age home brought warmth and comfort by Samaritans
A surprise visit from community champions brought tears, prayers, and much-needed winter essentials to the Jabulani Old Age Home – reminding its elderly residents that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.
A small group of elders at the Jabulani Old Age Home in Chantelle, north of Pretoria, recently received a visit that warmed their hearts and reminded them they are not alone.
The Tau Ya Phoka Group (TYPG) was joined by staff from the hydration company Puri-Hydrate, who brought donations and compassion to the doorstep of this under-resourced home.
What began as an ordinary day for the 16 elderly residents turned into a moving show of support, led by Tebogo Setshedi, Puri-Hydrate’s senior sales and marketing officer and the co-ordinator of the outreach initiative.
TYPG’s contribution included much-needed winter essentials, a 35-litre hot water urn, floor mats, warm clothing, flasks, and bottles of 500ml Puri-Hydrate water.
More than just delivering items, the team brought a sense of dignity and joy to a space that often goes unnoticed.
Setshedi offered a heartfelt prayer and led a soothing hymn that resonated deeply with the elders, some of whom wiped away tears during the spiritual moment.
A warm, hearty meal followed, lovingly prepared and served by the TYPG and Puri-Hydrate team.
“Our mission wasn’t to deliver speeches, but to serve and inspire.
“Elders are the strength pillars of our communities. Without them, our generation is lost. We are committed to doing more, not only today but every day,” said TYPG CEO Mantshele Tau.
Jabulani Old Age Home is no ordinary facility. It started as the personal residence of Anna Masilela, a clinical social worker whose calling led her to convert her house into a sanctuary for the frail and elderly.
Recognising the growing need for care in her community, Masilela donated the home to serve as a permanent refuge for neglected senior citizens.
She was joined in this mission by Damaria Magano, a retired CEO of Jubilee Hospital, who now volunteers as the matron of the home.
Together with four dedicated caregivers, Magano has kept the home running despite limited resources.
Although the home still lacks furniture, appliances, and structural upgrades, the recent visit has given them a renewed sense of hope.
TYPG has already committed to replacing the old, faded signage at the entrance, a symbolic gesture that reflects a broader commitment to restoring dignity and visibility to the elderly.
“We never expected such kindness. When I saw the TYPG team walking in with those branded T-shirts, I could sense the caring spirit they brought.
“These are people who live and breathe the value of compassion,” said Magano.
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