Helderberg Hospice celebrates Mandela Day with memorable day of giving

Staff Reporter|Published 9 months ago

Olothando Mshweshwe, Esmay Jasephs, Cindy Jacobs, Bradley Braaf helped create gift bags for patients.

From left, Sr Gillian Frances, Martha Roberts of the FamilyShelter, Rebekah Del Soullier and Kylie Wolhuter.

Gifts of handknitted children’s items were presented to Masikhule, by members of Helderberg Hospice; from left, Kylie Wolhuter, Karen Bufé, Rebekah Del Souiller, holding one of the boxes, Louise Smith, and Lèanne Keet.

A bounty of gifts, wrapped and ready to distribute.

Mandela Day 2024 was not only a day for Helderberg Hospice to receive incredible generosity from the community, but also for staff and volunteers to generously give to other charitable organisations within the Helderberg basin.

An appeal had been made for toiletry items to be donated to Helderberg Hospice so that care packages could be created for patients receiving palliative care.

Small tubes of toothpaste, lip balm, toothbrushes, toilet paper, shampoo and conditioner and other items of personal care started arriving.

Donors were invited not only to bring items, but also to create the packs, and create they did. Hundreds of beautifully decorated bags emerged after the many 67 minutes donated, all filled to the brim with love and care.

The pouring rain did nothing to dampen the spirit of giving that was palpable in the Helderberg Hospice Hall, in honour of the selfless giving that was the hallmark of Nelson Mandela.

Helderberg Hospice staff and volunteers also reached out to the Family Shelter, taking donations of clothing, cleaning products and blankets to assist the families who receive care and shelter here.

The initiative was led by social worker Kylie Wolhuter, supported by Rebekah Del Soullier and Sr Gillian Frances.

Next stop was to leave a donation of handknitted beanies, ponchos, gloves and blankets for children who receive early learning from Masikhule.

Caring for the future leaders was a cause dear to the late President, and Helderberg Hospice staff and volunteers spread their warmth and love with this gift.