The past month has been exciting, with most of our members looking forward to the High Holy Day celebrations in one form or another. Each branch had its share of celebrations before Rosh Hashanah, hosting special teas and being guests at school functions to participate in Grandparents’ Day, which was enjoyed by all who attended.
The seven welfare groups in our city joined forces just before Rosh Hashanah to hold a two-day Telethon. Our wonderful volunteers assisted us in raising awareness and desperately needed funds for the welfare arm of the Jewish community. Generous donors matched each donation, and we were thrilled to reach our target of R10 million – a fantastic result thanks to the generosity of our community and sponsors, as well as to everyone who worked so hard to canvas our donors. The money raised will assist each organisation in providing the necessary support services for our clients.
Our weekly programme offers a variety of activities that suit the needs of our members. The aim of this programme is to have a positive impact on the lives of our members and community so that they leave us feeling better than they did when they arrived at the centre. We achieve this by creating a supportive team environment with a culture of pursuing excellence in everything we offer. This includes keeping the brain active, staying physically fit, interacting and socialising with others, lifting spirits and being creative. There is something to suit everyone. Many of our members are isolated and alone, and we provide a safe space where people can be themselves and feel a sense of belonging as part of a big family. We endeavour to nourish one another physically, mentally, emotionally and culturally. Regular weekly outings are chosen carefully and, for many, it is the only time they get to go out and enjoy a variety of places and a treat in the company of others. The main aim of all our services is for people to return home, having spent time with us, feeling supported and appreciated and hoping to return to the centre again.
This month’s special outing was to view the Chelsea Flower Show Exhibition which was recreated in Stanford. The South African exhibition won Gold and achieved the Best Exhibit on Show accolade. We had a bus full of excited visitors going out to see the magnificent show of 22 000 different species of proteas. What a treat for all of us!
Bookings for our Goudini Spa break have opened, and members are urged to book as soon as possible. This three-night break will take place during March 2025.
We are so proud of our Chairman, Robyn Black, and our West Coast Social Worker, Stacey Melmed, who will be graduates of the 2024 Eliot Osrin Leadership Development Course. The year’s course has been intense but offered a wonderful growth experience for both of them. Hajiera is a past participant of the course so CJSA is most fortunate to now have three graduates who have completed the course and are giving back to the community. Mazal Tov, Robyn and Stacey!
We welcome Avuyile Nkqayi, an auxiliary social worker, who has joined our team and is currently working in Sea Point where her skills are needed.
We hope to see you at our functions. Please view our weekly programme as well as our weekly recommendations of shows available for free on YouTube.
Diana Sochen
Executive Director
Social & Personal
We congratulate our members who have had joyous occasions during the last month.
Births: Les Vides – Great Granddaughter
Special Birthdays:
Sandra Sheinbar – 90th,
Tina Phillips – 70th
Well wishes extended to those who have been under the weather:
Debbie Epstein, Maureen Pizzi
Refuah Shlemah You have all been in our thoughts.
Cape Jewish Seniors Association
Director: Diana Sochen, 021 434 9691, director@cjsa.org.za
Admin: Amanda, 021 434 9691, admin@cjsa.org.za
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