2SW Cubs and Meerkats uplift the elderly at SenCit
The term programme for 2nd Somerset West Cubs and Meerkats focused on kindness and tied into SCOUTS South Africa's National Challenge "Heath and Well-Being. 'Sencit Resthaven' is a local old age home catering for underprivileged elderly who don't get regular visits and whose needs are great. After meeting with the Social Worker it was determined that a visit and small gifts from our Meerkats/Cubs would uplift the mental health of the residents and give them a day to remember.
Over a period of 2-3 Pack /Den meetings, Cubs and Meerkats worked on inspiring cards, seed paper gifts, simple booklets with cartoon strips they wrote themselves, word searches and puzzles, simple games, and planters . Then on 18 May 2024, Adult Leaders, Cubs, Meerkats and parents visited the centre where we spent 2 hours, playing, singing, chatting and learning from each other. Socks were given to residents to keep their feet warm in the winter, as well as the booklets, cupcakes and flowers.
The Meerkats and Cubs learnt a number of practical skills while creating their gifts. They also learnt that you don't need big gifts or gestures to bring joy in the lives of others. By purposefully taking the time to create their gifts and spend time with the elderly they could make a difference in the lives of those who needed it. Although they learnt that it feels great to give back, the experience was quite emotional for some of the Cubs who saw first-hand the struggles of the elderly.
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