SKF hosted a ‘tea party’ for senior citizens in Nigel on 28th May 2014 to celebrate 100 successful years in South Africa. The Nigel Old Age Home was picked from a lucky draw, following nominations by SKF personnel of old age homes that would benefit from a social visit. Arrangements were made for some SKF volunteer personnel to enjoy a ‘tea party’ with the residents of the old age home, all sponsored by SKF South Africa.

SKF personnel engaged with the residents, including the Frail Care unit as well as the Alzheimer’s Wing. Some of the residents knew SKF and even related stories of working with SKF products!  One gentleman who worked on the railroad was responsible for transporting SKF products across the country. SKF personnel were made to feel very special when a ninety year old lady recited a story/poem. With everyone having such a great time, the afternoon was over far too soon. Management of the old age home offered their sincere thanks to SKF for spending time with these special people. The SKF volunteers expressed a wish to return to the old age home to spend more time with the residents.

Since SKF first opened its doors in South Africa in 1914, the company has grown and expanded into a Southern African leader in bearings and engineering solutions. As part of the local company’s 100 year celebrations, SKF staff members are encouraged to support various community projects during 2014.
“Our visit to the Nigel Old Age Home was our third community project in celebration of our centenary year,” says SKF South Africa’s Managing Director, Ian Cillié. “We kicked off our community projects in December 2013 with a book donation to Legae Day Care Centre. This was followed by a donation of food and cash raised by SKF personnel to the Boksburg SPCA.” 

SKF is planning further community projects for 2014 which are over and above SKF’s usual commitments to the St Francis Nursery School and Legae Day Care Centre whom the company has supported for many years.