Buhlebethu NPO organised an appreciation event at the Rand Water area in Winterveldt as an initiative for the elderly in the community. This was done with Thabisile Vilakazi, PR councillor for the Democratic Alliance.
The event celebrated struggle icon Nelson Mandela by showering gifts on the elderly in the area and showing values, through volunteering and community service.
As part of the event, people in Winterveldt came together and showed respect for the elderly. Buhlebethu also hoped it would encourage gratitude.
Buhlebethu NPO’s network coordinator, Dumisani Mahlangu, said the event celebrated South Africa’s first president from 1994 to 1999, who was also an activist and politician.
As he explained, their organisation meets with elderly people in Ward 24 to socialize and find out what sort of problems they have at home.
As an organisation built to help elderly people, we also try to assist them with family problems. However, if it is beyond our capability, we refer it to the appropriate office. To boost their health, we also organise training for them”, said Mahlangu.
” Elderly people are a significant part of our communities, and it is imperative to acknowledge their contributions” added Mahlangu.
According to Mahlangu, the elderly people are very happy with the gifts brought by the Councillor for them, and he hopes that the Councillor could do more for them and the community of Winterveldt in general.
DA PR councillor Thabisile Vilakazi said that hosting the elderly symbolizes the idea that each individual has the power to transform communities, the ability to make an impact.
Further, Vilakazi stated that she was invited by the organization to witness their contribution to the community.
“When I received the invite, I immediately thought I would honour it by bringing along warm throws for the elderly,” said Vilakazi.
Emma Mnisi, one of the elders, expressed her happiness regarding the gifts and Buhlebethu NPO. Furthermore, she stated that what she loves about Buhlebethu is that they get to exercise and showcase their skills through knitting.
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