7 days ago
WATCH: Foundation donates reusable diapers
A LOCAL foundation focused on upskilling individuals and making a difference in communities last week donated hand-sewn reusable diapers to the elderly.
The Westmead-based Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation had an outreach programme on May 26, which entailed its volunteers, who have been learning sewing as a skill at its centre, donating the diapers to elderly persons in Newlands.
These volunteers had spent months creating the reusable adult diapers after a need was identified in communities where elderly individuals have limited access to proper facilities.
#highwaymail ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia @caxtonlocalmedia Volunteers from the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation in Westmead are turning their sewing skills into acts of love ❤️, creating reusable adult diapers for elderly community members in need. These aren't just diapers, they're hand-sewn with dignity, compassion, and care 🙌🏽. Each one represents hours of work, heartfelt dedication, and a commitment to restoring comfort and hope to the elderly and their caregivers. #caxtondurban
The hand-sewn adult fabric diapers were made during weekly sewing classes held at the Tzu Chi centre.
The foundation's Kerry Ann Richardson said this programme is a reflection of how care, creativity, and community spirit can combine to meet a pressing need.
'These reusable cotton diapers, breathable and thoughtfully designed, were created specifically for elderly or bedridden individuals who often struggle with limited mobility and access to hygiene products.
'Each diaper comes with removable cotton linings – washable, soft, and sustainable – providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for recipients and caregivers. More than just a practical item, each one represents hours of dedication, intention, and love sewn into every seam by volunteers who believe deeply in the dignity of every human being,' said Richardson.
The foundation's first visit on the day was at a home of a man living with a disability in Newlands East.
'Despite his limited mobility and speech difficulties, his expression visibly brightened as we entered the home singing, bringing with us a bag of rice, blessing cards, and adult diapers. In a touching moment, he selflessly requested that the supplies be given instead to his elderly mother, who was bedridden in the next room,' said Richardson.
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She said upon visiting the mother, it was learnt that she is an octogenarian who is cared for by a granddaughter.
'These home visits aim to provide more than material support; they offer connection, compassion, and dignity through simple acts like feeding a patient, helping with hygiene, or offering a moment of company,' said Richardson.
The foundation then visited another home in Newlands where a son is the sole caregiver for his mother and two aunts – one of whom has Down Syndrome.
'His mother, bedridden following a stroke, requires fulltime care. The living area had been converted into a sleeping space with two beds and minimal room to move, highlighting the urgent need for supplies like diapers. In homes like these, it becomes clear that our presence alone – a visit, a conversation, a moment of attention – can offer a powerful sense of hope and recognition,' said Richardson.
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