Bringing joy to our elders
'Learning about the importance of chesed took on an entirely new meaning once they were able to put it into practice with Smile On Seniors.'.
During Chanukah last year, Smile On Seniors was thrilled to collaborate with Leibler Yavneh College for their Cha-love initiative – delivering food packages to seniors in honour of Shabbat or chagim, which included handwritten postcards from the students. Year 7 students prepared 230 packages to be distributed to the residents of 12 aged care facilities.
Noah Epstein, who is part of the Jewish Life team at Leibler Yavneh College, said, “The opportunity that the year 7 students had to create packs for the seniors was an incredibly special way to cap off a year of learning about what it means to become a bar/bat mitzvah.
“Learning about the importance of chesed took on an entirely new meaning once they were able to put it into practice with Smile On Seniors.”.
As part of their work experience program, King David School students also joined with Smile On Seniors over several weeks, including Chanukah. The students got to know the seniors on a personal level, visiting them and transcribing interviews about their lives.
The initiative also hosted concerts in three facilities. There was music, dancing, and of course – doughnuts!
“We feel privileged to be able to bring the spirit of Shabbat and chagim to Jewish residents who are in caring, but not necessarily Jewish, environments,” said Eva Krinsky, program coordinator at Smile On Seniors, who added, “It is clear that the seniors value their Jewish identity, and they participate in our programs and events with joy and enthusiasm.”
To volunteer or collaborate with Smile On Seniors, visit smileonseniors.org.au/volunteering.