Offering a meaningful intervention in the lives of members of the local Jewish community with mental illnesses or intellectual disabilities, Giftime, the gifting arm of Astra, provides a stimulating environment for their clients – people who would otherwise be relegated to an institutionlised home.
“The services Astra offers bring benefits both to those who cannot successfully function in a conventional work environment and to the community and the wider Cape Town,” explains Ilana Sacks from Giftime. “Having a work commitment at Astra – in roles such as beading, sewing, embroidery and woodwork – means that 48 people from the community are gainfully employed and find greater purpose in their lives. And, the products that they produce are then available to the local community for purchase at our shop, Giftime, or via our website.”
The various products that are sold are unique and cannot be found elsewhere (other than some at the SA Jewish Museum Shop and a few other stores). “The range of gifts is extensive,” Ilana continues, “and our products are particularly popular as gifts for special occasions, such as Rosh Hashanah, Pesach, Christmas, and for the birth of babies, weddings, or Bar or Bat Mitzvahs.”
The shop, which has been in existence since 1999, relies heavily on the contribution of both paid employees, such as the Astra supervisors who oversee the work of the clients with disabilities, and on volunteers. For someone with an artistic eye who enjoys doing craft-type work, the shop can be a very fulfilling volunteer experience: volunteers get involved in the packing and special wrapping of gifts, including the making of bows and other decorations for gifts. There are also opportunities for volunteer drivers during the run-up to Rosh Hashanah and Pesach, when the demand for the delivery of Chag Sameach gifts is at its height.
So, when you’re planning your gifting this Yom Tov, include the Giftime range in your selection of presents. You’ll be able to give a particularly special item, while at the same time supporting those in our community who most need our assistance to live fulfilling lives.
Interested in volunteering? Contact Ilana on 021 465 6500
Check out the range of gifts available at Giftime: Visit the website at astrajse.com to take a look.
Gifts can be delivered to your family or friends if you order them on the website.
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