Collaboration with Safripol Brings Lasting Change to Letsoho Le None Centre

The theme for Mandela Day 2025 was #GETINVOLVED, and Safripol truly embraced it, showing how powerful collaboration can be when hearts are united for a cause.

As LUSA Community Chest, we had the privilege of introducing Safripol to the Letsoho Le None (LLN) Centre for the Elderly, a place close to our hearts that we help manage. From the moment we shared the challenges faced by the centre, including food shortages, safety concerns, the urgent need for a working stove for daily meals, and the sustainability of their sewing projects, Safripol’s commitment to making a tangible difference was clear.

Transforming a Place of Care

Working together, the vision was to create a safe, warm, and dignified space for the elderly residents. Within just three weeks, the once deteriorating building was retiled and freshly painted. The kitchen was completely rebuilt to provide a functional and welcoming area for daily meals. A new palisade fence was installed, greatly improving the centre’s security. Alongside these major changes, thoughtful touches were added throughout to restore pride, comfort, and a sense of home.

More Than Renovations

Throughout July, Safripol employees collected food, sewing accessories, and hygiene products for LLN. In addition, Safripol made a generous R20 000 cash donation for new sewing machines. This ensured the continuation of the sewing projects that help fund the centre’s operations and empower its members.

The Heart of Mandela Day

Mandela Day is about people, not just projects. On the day, the warmth, laughter, and gratitude from the elderly residents touched every heart. Many shared memories of loved ones who had worked at Safripol since the 1970s, reminding us of the deep connections between past and present. These moments were a powerful reminder that caring for our elders is not just an act of kindness. It is our responsibility and honour.

Our Gratitude

At LUSA, we know that great projects are built on strong partnerships. We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this transformation possible with Safripol:

• BM Construction for meeting an incredibly tight three-week renovation deadline.
• Bidvest employees for a thorough post-renovation clean.
• Charitoo for serving a warm and delicious meal to the residents on Mandela Day.
• Feltex for donating carpets, fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, and sewing accessories, and Unitrans for ensuring safe delivery from KZN to the Free State.
• An anonymous Safripol “unicorn” for donating a large bag of wool, crochet hooks, and other sewing materials. These resources will support crocheting classes for young girls.
• An anonymous Safripol “goldfish” for donating an overlocker to the centre.

This Mandela Day reminded us that when organisations and communities come together, we can create change that lasts far beyond a single day. Safripol’s compassion, dedication, and willingness to get involved have left a lasting mark, and at LUSA, we are proud to have been part of this journey.