Africa-Press – Lesotho. Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB), through its Winter Drive donation initiative, extended a helping hand to the elderly this winter at Elizabeth Bruyere Old Age Home located in Pitseng, Leribe. This donation is one of many activities under SLB’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
This generous gesture, part of the bank’s annual winter donation initiative, reflects its commitment to giving back and making a difference in the lives of vulnerable groups in Lesotho.
The bank has previously undertaken similar initiatives, targeting orphanages, schools in rural areas, and hospitals. Each year, SLB dedicates a portion of its resources and time to improving the lives of Basotho beyond the banking hall.
The donation, which took place this past week, brought warmth and comfort to the elderly residents who often face significant challenges during the cold season. With temperatures dropping to uncomfortable lows in Lesotho’s mountainous regions, many senior citizens struggle to stay warm due to limited resources.
The contributions made by SLB included heavy winter coats, scarves, beanies, blankets, warm slippers, and a variety of nutritious food items.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Manyathela Kheleli, SLB’s Marketing Manager for Communications and Sponsorship, emphasised that the bank’s role in the community goes beyond financial services.
He noted that the bank has used approximately M100,000.00 in this initiative, with the support of Basotho who not only donated their clothes, but also went into stores to buy new ones specifically for the drive.
Kheleli said this year they plan to also extend a hand to children without parents, people living with disabilities, and other old age homes. “We believe in shared growth. As a bank that has grown with the people of Lesotho for decades, we feel it is our duty to give back to those who laid the foundation for the future generation,” said Kheleli.
“Our elders hold the history and wisdom of our nation, and it is only right that we protect and care for them, especially during these challenging winter months.”
“In everything we do, we aim to leave a footprint of kindness and service,” he said. “We are inspired by the principle of Botho the spirit of humanity and we will continue to support initiatives that uplift communities.”
The Elizabeth Bruyere Old Age Home, which houses over 12 senior citizens and supports nearby villagers, has long been a sanctuary for elderly Basotho who have no families to care for them or who live in extreme poverty.
It is one of the few old age homes in the country, operating with limited resources and relying heavily on public support to meet the daily needs of its residents.
Home manager, Sister Margret Ramoutloanyana, expressed gratitude to SLB, noting that the donation came at the perfect time.
“This winter has been particularly harsh, and we were running low on warm clothing and basic food supplies. What Standard Lesotho Bank has done for us today is more than a donation it is a lifeline. It shows us that we are not forgotten, and for that, we are truly thankful.”
She also highlighted how important such support is for the elderly, especially those who suffer from chronic illnesses that worsen in the cold. “Warm clothing and good food are not luxuries they are necessities. And for our residents, they make all the difference.”
On behalf of Pitseng senior citizens, Mamojabeng Mafube acknowledged SLB for remembering them during this harsh winter. She also appreciated the Sister’s in charity for always ensuring they are well cared for.
Mafube also spoke about today’s youth, noting that many are ignorant and unwilling to listen to their elders. “When we were their age, back in 1960, we knew how to take advice from our elders hence most of us are in good care today,” she said.
Mafube advised them not only to listen but to take heed of the guidance they are given.
She mentioned that being old is very challenging, and one major issue is the younger generation stealing from them, but she added that prayer is the answer to everything.
“We appreciate such acts of kindness because they bring warmth, dignity, and hope for us,” said Mafube
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