By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
More than 30 children at Reatlegile Children and Youth Centre in Dibate village near Mahikeng received food parcels during Mandela International Day on Monday. North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Lenah Miga said they kick-started the day by assisting with cleaning the place and handed over food parcels.
The centre was established in 2007 by a Mahikeng philanthropist, Boitumelo Selepe (59).
“The centre is currently taking care of over 30 children, who are all of school-going age. The centre survives through donations from faith-based organisations. We are grateful to the kind-hearted people, who are helping the centre to make sure that the children do not go to bed hungry.
“The youngest among the children in the centre is two months old. We have also executed the theme by handing over sports kits at the old age home in Boitumelong Township, near Bloemhof,” she said.
Miga also encouraged elderly women at old age to be physically fit to lessen the risk of developing other diseases associated with ageing. She said she is inspired and touched because women remain pillars of society, and caregivers and are much needed by those close to them no matter the age. She said she hopes the spirit and courage women have will continue for generations to come.
“We have to leave a legacy for our young people. Remember, Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated worldwide to commemorate the former statesman’s achievements and to carry forward his legacy for a better future.
“In recognition of the former President Mandela’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, the day highlights the dedication to the service of humanity and promotion of a culture of peace,” she said.
Miga further said the idea is for everyone to make a 67 minutes difference in the day through volunteering, donations and community service.
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