On Saturday, 26 April 2025, Time to Care—in conjunction with the Fordsburg Independent Newspaper’s welfare arm, the Independent Welfare Organisation—transformed a simple park on the corner of Vrede and Rus Roads into a beacon of hope. In this one-day event, 222 grocery hampers were distributed to elderly residents from Caroline Street and Radio Cottage Old Age Villages, Amber Court, Teak Court, and Akasia Court Old Age flat units, and selected Old Age cluster homes spanning from 3rd through 9th Streets.
Residents gathered eagerly to collect their grocery hampers, which were generously sponsored by Time to Care and the Nizamiye Foundation. The Independent Welfare Organisation—through its dedicated donors—also provided 300 loaves of fresh bread, ensuring no one went home empty-handed.
From the very first moment, the air was electric with gratitude. Frail seniors, many dependent on fixed pensions and limited mobility, arrived early, greeted by volunteers bearing bright smiles and carefully packed hampers. “I really looked forward to this as my cupboards were empty—it gives me hope,” shared Aunty Jackie of Caroline Street Old Age Village. Aunty Stella from Radio Cottage added, “These groceries are more than food—they remind us that we are not forgotten.”
Time to Care, driven by its motto “Every Smile Matters,” has quickly become synonymous with compassionate action. Their work is founded on three pillars:
- Immediate Relief for those in the grip of poverty
- Sustainable Solutions that break the cycle of need
- Community Partnerships that amplify the impact of every donation
“Ensuring our elders never lack the basics—food, dignity, companionship—is our highest calling,” said Mr. H. Kublay, Time to Care’s director, who personally helped distribute the hampers to recipients. His hands-on approach energized both volunteers and seniors alike.
Shakiera Tayob, Publisher & Chief Editor of the Independent Newspaper Group, praised the extraordinary collaboration: “Today’s event showcased the incredible power of partnership—when media, non-profit expertise, and generous hearts unite, real change happens. On behalf of every elderly resident, we extend our deepest thanks to Time to Care, Nizamiye Foundation, ADT Security, and our Independent Welfare team. We hope and pray for more collaborations such as these, and dream of making this distribution a reliable lifeline for our seniors.”
Learn more about Time to Care’s mission at timetocare.org.za, and consider joining their growing circle of supporters. As Aunty Kariema from Amber Court reflected, “Today’s hampers brought us joy—imagine the comfort of knowing that help will be there whenever it’s needed.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to ADT Security, whose team ensured everyone’s safety throughout the distribution. With immense gratitude to Time to Care, Nizamiye Foundation, ADT Security, the Independent Welfare Organisation, and all who stand with our elderly communities.
