POLOKWANE – A R30 000 donation from Northern Media Group has given Gae Ga Mahlako Community Services for Elderly and Disability a much-needed boost, allowing the organisation to expand its services in the community.

The organisation was one of several local charities that benefitted from the proceeds of the Polokwane Review/Observer Charity Golf Day held on September 19 last year. With the donation, founder Molatelo Masekela was able to build an additional room and a small hall for elderly beneficiaries.

“The money made a huge difference because the structures were really needed, especially when the weather is bad. We would never have managed to build this on our own,” Masekela said. The new space has increased the organisation’s capacity and improved the comfort of the elderly it serves.

Masekela’s work started 22 years ago when her mother was left wheelchair-bound after a car accident. She became her mother’s primary caregiver and, following her passing in 2020, felt compelled to extend that care to others in similar situations.

“During my home visits, I saw how many elderly people were struggling with poor health, neglected treatment and limited mobility,” she said.

As a registered nurse, Masekela conducts regular health checks, including monitoring blood pressure and glucose levels. The organisation currently supports 58 elderly people and offers activities such as exercise, netball, football, crafts, choir and dance.

“Their gratitude is my biggest reward. They love so genuinely,” she said.

While the donation has helped significantly, the organisation still needs support to complete an older structure that requires a roof, plastering, windows and doors. There is also a need for a security fence and guard house to ensure the safety of the elderly.

Other priorities include a JoJo tank, a proper sewage system and stipends for volunteers who assist daily.

Masekela welcomes both monetary and in-kind donations and can be contacted on 082 580 8484 or 069 861 6626.