The “Kommunarka” confectionery factory visited the “Sviatlica” round-the-clock care unit for the fifth time. On the second floor of the building, instead of the usual curtains on the windows, there is a three-section "chocolate" screen of the brand, and instead of a bookshelf, there is a promotional stand. The residents of the unit make themselves comfortable in the chairs and wait for the start with undisguised curiosity.
The “Kommunarka” confectionery factory visited the “Sviatlica” round-the-clock care unit for the fifth time. On the second floor of the building, instead of the usual curtains on the windows, there is a three-section "chocolate" screen of the brand, and instead of a bookshelf, there is a promotional stand. The residents of the unit make themselves comfortable in the chairs and wait for the start with undisguised curiosity.
Vasily Ravovoy, Head of the Department of Labour, Employment and Social Protection of the District Executive Committee, speaks first. The official guest congratulates everyone on Women's Day. Then there is an unexpected turn – another festive occasion is discovered, a personal one. It so happened that on this day, Viktor Malchevsky was celebrating his ninetieth birthday. The war veteran was touched by the attention, kind words, and gifts. It is difficult to imagine what emotions overwhelmed the jubilarian. Wiping away a single tear, he repeated "thank you" in a low voice.
A pensioner in a smart pink blouse smiles and, nodding her head, says respectfully: "We remember and are grateful that you do not forget us."
The official part of the event gives way to entertainment. The audience's attention shifts to the creative group “Myatlitsa”, organised at the day care unit for people with disabilities of the Territorial Centre for Social Services and including visually impaired individuals. Cheerful melodies flow one after another. It is worth noting the charisma of the artists, which adds brightness to the performance, and gives the expression "to not take one's eyes off" a literal meaning. The listeners also turned out to be very active, sparing no effort in applauding and tapping out familiar rhythms. By the way, the concert program and the groups change annually, bringing new impressions. During the breaks between songs, one of the vocalists reads poetry. A beautiful and philosophical line is etched in memory: "May the invisible strength in your soul never diminish." The song "Malinovy Zvon" is played, mentally carrying those present somewhere deep into their souls and into the past summers… The induced light sadness turned out to be a pleasant feeling and, most importantly, measured. The next performance is a contrast – lively chastushki. It was time for a slow dance – the ladies invited the gentlemen.
Little Red Riding Hood Alina, a fairytale character from the factory who accompanies all festive events and exhibitions, is preparing a tray for gift-giving. "Kommunarka" has a wide variety of confectionery products, but traditionally, soufflés are brought to "Sviatlica," taking into account age-specific needs. All forty-eight residents received identical gift sets. The head of the department, Elena Chuvilina, invites guests to get a closer look at the institution itself. She notes the gradually evening out ratio of men and women, and even mentions the presence of married couples.
Being here for the first time, I expected to see something like a hospital with white wards and minimalist furnishings. Peeking into individual rooms and walking down the corridor, I realised that an analogy with a sanatorium would be more appropriate. Tall exotic plants are juxtaposed with charming handmade items that make the interior unique, along with unconventional colours and many other details that support this comparison.
A relaxation room recently opened. Serenity reigns there – lime-green and yellow tones, a soft, high-pile carpet, and subdued lighting. Airy curtains drape the wall, creating an illusion of expanded space, and a small, cosy sofa moulds to the shape of the person sitting in it, gently swaying as if on waves. The psychologist also holds conversations here, and people come here to escape their roommates, the television, or simply to find solitude.
The delegation continues to tour the apartments, and in the meantime, we will visit Valentina Avdievich.
The hospitable hostess seats us at the table and readily shares her story. She moved to "Sviatlica" just over three years ago from the village of Staroselie, where she lived alone. Until then, the director of the Territorial Centre for Social Services, Natalia Ivanova, visited her regularly and offered more comfortable living conditions. She regrets not agreeing sooner, as here she doesn't have to worry about stoking the stove, cleaning, or bathing. It is always warm and comfortable, there is someone to talk to, and attentive staff are nearby. Zhanna Kopylova cares for her as if she were her own. In the spacious room, there are three other women who have become her friends. Valentina Grigoryevna has been singing since her youth and now collaborates with other vocal enthusiasts. Sometimes in the evening, they start a song on the balcony, and it can be heard all around the neighbourhood. A couple of years ago, for the visit of a high-ranking official, she and several other singers were fitted with elegant costumes. A self-taught ensemble was formed. A photograph taken then as a memento is carefully kept in her locker.
The interlocutor is a cheerful and active person. Despite her age and walking stick, she danced along with the artists of "Myatlitsa", putting her support aside. Eyebrows penciled in reveal her as a fashionista and a desire to look good. She laughs: she even has an admirer.
Concurrently with our meeting and conversation, another one was coming to an end. Before departure, each party expressed hope for further cooperation.
Evgenia LYAKH.
In the photos: Vasily Ravovoy congratulates Viktor Malchevsky on his anniversary