Tears of joy streamed down Gogo Mary Nolundi’s cheeks as members of Mbolombini Health and Wellness Project spring-cleaned and painted her house on Mother’s Day at J-Section in Khayelitsha.
Mbolombini founder Belinda Mentile said the organisation looks after the elderly people in their area. They have about 30 old people on their books and they started their free service during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown.
“We help the elderly by running errands because most of them stay alone or with grandchildren, so it is difficult for them to walk to the shops,” said Mentile.
She said they help them get their groceries and collect their medication from nearby clinics.
On Sunday, May 12, the organisation partnered with Two Much Wi-fi and painted Gogo Nolundi’s house without her knowing. She was taken to a neighbour’s house while volunteers got their hands dirty.
When Nolundi, who lives alone in the house, returned she was overwhelmed with joy when she saw the house painted.
“The last time this house was painted was when I buried my son who had committed suicide. I am old, I cannot even clean my house properly,” she said.
Too Much Wi-fi’s Mzukisi Mpingose said they were touched when Mbolombini approached them detailing Nolundi’s plight.
“We are delighted to help out in situations like these and we thank Mbolombini for their efforts of trying to give the elderly safe and healthy spaces,” said Mr Mpingose.
Community leader Khwezi Mayambela said it was encouraging to see young people taking such steps to help the elderly.
