News Desk Reporter
For some elderly residents, a helping hand brought comfort during a bitterly cold winter.
The Collen Mashawana Foundation provided food, blankets, clothing and mobility support to hundreds of elderly residents in the community.
The Foundation held its Elderly Day Care Initiative at Nxamalala School on Thursday. The programme came as freezing temperatures and snowfall continued to affect parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
Residents received warm meals, blankets, clothing and other essential items. Wheelchairs were also donated to elderly people living with mobility challenges.
The Foundation said the support was intended to help vulnerable residents through the harsh winter while promoting dignity and independence.
The initiative was delivered with support from the Ncanda Foundation, Red Cross and Al-Imdaad Foundation.
Austin Mashawana, Chief Operating Officer of the Collen Mashawana Foundation, said the outreach was about more than providing necessities.
“Today was about showing our elderly citizens that they are valued, respected and remembered.”
Mashawana said the Foundation wanted to stand with communities during difficult times.
“Our responsibility goes beyond providing a meal or a blanket; it is about restoring dignity and standing with our communities, particularly during difficult times,” he said.
The Foundation’s work in the area is expected to continue beyond the winter relief programme.
Nxamalala School has been adopted by the Foundation. Plans are in place to develop it into a community skills development centre.
The proposed development includes a computer laboratory, academic support and extra classes for learners.
The plans are aimed at creating longer-term opportunities while addressing immediate needs.
The Foundation said it would continue working with communities and partner organisations to support vulnerable residents and create sustainable opportunities.