The Atlantis Blue Crane Senior Citizen Club was recently surprised by the Thuthuzela Care Centre on June 20. Lorna Gertze, the link coordinator, and her team, Kholwa Mndabe, a social worker, and Belinda Valentine, conducted an enlightening session focused on identifying and preventing abuse.
Subsequently, the members received personalised beginner’s care packages, generously donated by Siya Kolisi, the esteemed Springbok captain, through the Kolisi Foundation, evoking deep appreciation.
Operating solely on contributions from local sources, each member donates R100 monthly from their pensions. These funds sustain their gatherings held four times a month, where they relish coffee, tea, and home-made soup with bread, thoughtfully prepared by board members or community volunteers.
Despite the absence of support from the Department of Social Services, the club members exhibit remarkable resilience in supporting one another. They nurture their well-being through communal care and the assistance of organisations like Thuthuzela, the Kolisi Foundation, and the wider community. Beyond the regular meetings, the Atlantis Blue Crane Senior Citizen Club also organises various activities aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being. These include gentle yoga sessions, storytelling afternoons, and craft workshops, where members can express their creativity and learn new skills.
In addition to these activities, the club actively celebrates cultural and festive events, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Whether it’s a vibrant Heritage Day celebration or a cosy Christmas gathering, these events are eagerly anticipated and bring joy to all members.
The club also encourages intergenerational interaction by inviting local schools and youth groups to participate in certain activities. These interactions not only enrich the lives of the senior members, but also provide the younger generation with valuable insights and lessons from their elders.
Looking ahead, the Atlantis Blue Crane Senior Citizen Club hopes to establish a small community garden. This initiative aims to provide fresh produce for their meals and create a serene space where members can engage with nature, find tranquillity and enjoy the fruits of their labour.
The unwavering spirit of the Atlantis Blue Crane Senior Citizen Club is testament to the power of community, resilience and the kindness of those who support their mission. Together they continue to build a vibrant, supportive environment where every member can thrive and feel valued.
