By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
7 July 2026 – The North West Department of Social Development has acted swiftly to find accommodation for an elderly man, who was shown on various social media platform in desperate need of shelter and warmth. The department said Madibeng-based social workers managed to track down an old man, who identified himself as Michael from Tlhatlhaganyane, near Rustenburg.
North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie said:“We are elated that our elderly has been removed from the freezing streets to a warm bed at our old age home in Sonop.
“We hold dear our elderly and highly appreciate our team in Sonop, who upon seeing the video acted very fast. Our thanks also went to those who flighted the plight of our elderly.”
Dankie further said this is how social media should be used positively to build society. She added that she is pleased to note that ubuntu can still finds its way through these platforms.
“The social workers have not rested after accommodating the elder, they are hard at work, trying to locate and reunite him with his family at Tlhatlhaganyane.
“We call on families and community members to take care of the elderly and report their abuse with social workers and law enforcement agencies,” she said.
The Guardian 