The Center for Civic and Democracy Education worked in conjunction with the City of Tshwane, Patch Up SA, and the Electoral Commission (IEC) served meals to the community of Eesterust on Mandela Day.
Mr Paledi Magopa, a Civic Educator said ideally every day should be a Mandela day where all South Africans can have something to do in lending a helping hand in their communities.
“A hot and healthy meal was served to the homeless and unorganized youth of Eersterust and I think when one sees a child who is in need and has something to contribute, they should do so. One can make soup and package it in containers and donate it to the less fortunate.
“On gender-based violence, we always say people should not look away. If you are aware of someone that is in distress, you must reach out and show them that there is a way out,” he said.
One of the homeless persons, Ms Lerato Mofokeng, said “life on the streets is difficult and we often live like animals. It has been a while since I have had a decent meal and I was not aware that people occasionally think about homeless people. Some of us we are not living on the streets out of choice and I hope those who think about us could occasionally listen to our problems and issues and I think they will be shocked to hear them.”
Mr. Bokamoso Johnson of IEC said many homeless people were visited in Eersterust and provided with food and engaged in a variety of activities.
“Even though the places are not in excellent shape, we cleaned dumping areas and also helped them clean where they are sleeping.
“Mandela Day is all about supporting one another, and I hope people can do that every day. People in the street are having a difficult time, and I hope the government will continue to assist those who live there because it hasn’t been done yet,” he said
