I love Winter – the pelting rain, the huge waves on the shore and the comfort food that can be enjoyed at social occasions with friends and family in the comfort of our homes. Unfortunately not everyone has the same love for Winter, since they have to battle with cold, harsh conditions, lack of warmth and often lack of shelter.
Therefore, I was so pleased that our outreach initiative touched the hearts of so many of our members. A large group of knitters spent the morning at our Southern Suburbs home, celebrating the legacy of Madiba and honouring his birthday on 18 July. Beanies and squares were knitted while they socialised and, after doing their “time”, the volunteers were able to enjoy tea and special eats. It was good to see some of our Milnerton members joining in this special morning. We are hoping to build on the knitting circles regularly hosted in the Southern Suburbs and Milnerton through a group at our new Sea Point home in Albany Road.
Volunteering
Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity and is intended to promote goodness or improve human quality of life. In return, this activity can produce a feeling of self-worth and respect. There is no financial gain involved for the individual. Volunteering is also renowned for skills development, socialisation, and fun. It is helping, assisting, or serving another person or persons without pay. CJSA volunteers assist the organisation in numerous ways from visiting housebound members, assisting with shopping, and befriending. We also value our volunteers who work in administrative capacities. We are always looking for new volunteers so, if you have a few hours to spare, please give a thought to joining our volunteer team and ‘adding life to years’ for our Seniors.
Volunteers are not paid – not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless!
Multitasking
Each of our branches is headed by a highly qualified and superbly efficient Social Worker who spends her day multitasking to ensure that our members and guests are welcomed and afforded a special time when they come to ‘their’ branch. Examples of the services CJSA provides include:
• A space where members can socialise and engage with other members.
• Structured activities that provide intellectual stimulation.
• Counselling from a Social Worker– Trauma debriefing, support, conflict resolution, future plans in terms of moving to a residential home or ageing in place.
• Transport for members that cannot drive anymore.
• Social intervention such as advice and assistance to complete application forms for residential homes.
• Regular home visits supporting members who are ill or in need of counselling and advice.
• Correspondence with family members as and when needed.
• Encouraging members to give back to the community and not only receive e.g. knitting items which are donated to worthy causes.
Every branch works in their own unique way and each Social Worker works independently from the other branches, even though we are part of a team as CJSA. At times our Social Workers do not have auxiliary assistance such as a driver, housekeeper, or admin assistance. This means that every aspect of running the branch falls squarely on the shoulders of the Social Worker. Therefore, if you are a member who is capable of assisting in any way at all, you can be assured that your Social Worker will greatly appreciate any offers and input.
As we move into Spring and the days get warmer, we have the opportunity for renewal in every way as we look forward to Rosh Hashanah. We hope that the High Holy Days will be meaningful for everyone and that you will be able to celebrate with those you love, enjoying special times, special foods and, at the same time, looking at ways in which to improve every aspect of our lives – spiritually and holistically. Should you be alone for any of the celebrations, please contact your Social Worker and we will make every effort to assist you.
The Executive Committee and Staff of CJSA join me in wishing one and all a Happy and Healthy New Year and a meaningful and easy Fast.
Diana Sochen,
Executive Director
Social and Personal
We congratulate our members who have had joyous occasions during the last month.
Births: Eunice Mofsowitz – great granddaughter
Our wishes of strength to members who have recently lost family members:
Nan Scholij – Mother
Fay Shagom – Son
Debbie Epstein – Husband, Harry
Cape Jewish Seniors Association
Director: Diana Sochen, 021 434 9691, director@cjsa.org.za
Admin: Amanda, 021 434 9691, admin@cjsa.org.za
CJSA on Facebook
• Published in the September 2023 issue – Click here to start reading.
• To advertise in the Cape Jewish Chronicle and on this website – kindly contact Lynette Roodt on 021 464 6736 or email advertising@ctjc.co.za. For more information and advertising rate card click here.
• Sign up for our newsletter and never miss another issue.
• Please support the Cape Jewish Chronicle with a voluntary Subscription for 2023. For payment info click here.
• Visit our Portal to the Jewish Community to see a list of all the Jewish organisations in Cape Town with links to their websites.
Follow the Cape Jewish Chronicle: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
