Call for help to feed the elderly

THE Association for the Aged (Tafta) is seeing a growing number of older people in need of nourishing meals, and is asking the public to support its drive to increase the number of needy seniors registered on its Meals on Wheels programme.

Chief executive Femada Shamam said the association was seeing more elders in need of daily sustenance because of the fallout from Covid-19.

She shared the story of 84-year-old Mrs V, who lost her lifeline last year when her friend died.

“Mrs V lived with her friend in a flat in Durban, sharing the cost of rent.

“Unfortunately, her friend contracted Covid-19 and died, leaving Mrs V grief stricken and in deep trouble.

“She had to pay the full rental on the flat on her minuscule state pension of R1 890. She was left with no money for food or medication.

“Our social worker negotiated on her behalf with the landlord who has so generously allowed her to remain in the safe and familiar environment on reduced rental, and Tafta has started delivering her meals through our Meals on Wheels programme.”

Sadly, said Shamam, Mrs V’s circumstances are not isolated.

A sponsor can cover a week’s worth of meals for R250, while R1 000 would cover a month, and R13 000 a year.

If you are able to contribute to this vital service that is even more important during winter, please contact Tafta’s fund-raising department to discuss sponsorship options.

For more information about the Meals on Wheels programme, call 031 332 3721 or email mow@tafta. org.za. To sponsor an elder’s meals, contact the income development and public relations department at info@tafta.org.za.