Elderly residents at Gerard Old Age Home received food, clothing, and financial support from Ackerman’s Ububele CSI programme, fostering gratitude and hope.
Xoliswa Zakwe – Alex News
Christmas came early for the elderly residents of Gerhard Old Age Home as Ackerman’s Ububele CSI (Corporate Social Investment) programme blessed them with a generous donation of food groceries, clothing and monitory support on October 30.
The excitement was palpable as the home manager Fundiswa Shabangu expressed her heartfelt gratitude for this much-needed assistance.
“We are thrilled today because Ackermans Ububele CSI has chosen to bless us again this year with gifts for the elderly. They have been supporting us for the past three years, providing us with essential items that help ensure our centre remains sustainable,” Shabangu said.
Amid the ongoing challenges of funding operational costs, particularly following the economic disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Shabangu highlighted the vital role such support plays in the home’s survival.
“We are facing serious funding challenges. Numerous local businesses supporting the home closed following the Covid-19 pandemic. But today’s gifts remind us to never lose hope.”
The manager expressed cautious optimism in light of recent revitalisation efforts at the Pan Africa Mall, where new shops are set to open. “I hope these new businesses can support us, allowing us to regain our strength again.
“We are asking everyone who may be able to assist to help with donations and sponsorships before the home closes due to financial constraints. This home is not only for the people of Roma; it’s for everyone in the community of Alexandra.”
Ackermans Killarney store manager Harold Moyo conveyed the heartfelt philosophy behind their contributions. “With the money that we have, we must give back to the community; our store exists because of it. Without our customers, we wouldn’t be able to grow. We are doing this out of love, not for fame.”
The event not only brought much-needed resources to the elderly residents but also a sense of hope and connection as two elderly residents voiced their appreciation.
A 99-year-old resident Nomsa Twala said, “I need thousands of mouths to thank my children for the gifts they have brought us today. Jesus said, ‘Be fruitful and multiply’, today we are old and we have people who love us and always remind us that we are not forgotten.”
Another elderly resident Mpho Malunga said, “Thank you to Ackerman’s for their generosity. It means a lot to us here at the home. It shows we are valued and cared for.”
