Some of the Cambridge Community House neighbours who were treated to a special lunch on July 19.
Cambridge Community House (CCH) put caring into action earlier this month when they shared a special lunch with seniors living in council housing behind the CCH building in Leamington.
The July 19 luncheon took place a day after Nelson Mandela International Day, a United Nations-led day marked globally in recognition of Mandela’s birthday on July 18. The international day was inspired by a call by Nelson Mandela in 2008 for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices. The movement is seen as one that honours his life’s work and inspired change for the better.
CCH manager Harriet Dixon said the House wanted to celebrate Mandela Day and do something caring for their neighbours – in this instance the seniors living in council housing behind their property.
“We just paid it forward for Mandela Day. Rather than making it all about that, we chose to make it about the community and caring for our neighbours. Looking out for our neighbours is extremely important to CCH. Residents of the older persons’ housing just behind us are our nearest neighbours. Many live alone, so providing an opportunity to socialise is important to prevent isolation and loneliness.
Onyx Restaurant’s Jody Joblin, CCH administrator/fundraiser Jenni Dacomb, and special guest at the lunch Maioro Barton.
“The lunch we held was a great occasion to socialise and share some lunch,” Harriet said. “We tucked into lovely hot soup and bread, which was kindly provided for free by Onyx Restaurant. The conversation flowed … what an interesting mix of people we have in our community, when we take the time to stop and listen to them tell their stories.”
Also present was CCH’s special guest, well-known wheelchair basketballer Maioro Barton.
“Maioro recently rescued an older lady who was lost and disorientated in Cambridge, making sure she was safe until help arrived,” said Harriet. “It was fantastic having Maioro attend our lunch. He shares the same values as the team at Community House; looking out for the welfare of others is important to us all.”
