The National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has strengthened Amcare’s operational services by donating 18 solar panels and a 5 000-litre JoJo tank.

This ensures that the organisation can continue its vital community work during power outages, load shedding and water disruptions.

The handover highlights the growing importance of sustainable infrastructure for non-profit organisations that provide essential services to vulnerable residents.

Amcare, which recently marked 24 years of service in January, supports thousands of people across Alberton and surrounding areas through victim empowerment programmes, gender-based violence interventions, HIV/Aids support, elderly care and community outreach initiatives.

Ward 94 councillor Samantha Nair played a pivotal role in securing the project after identifying Amcare as a deserving beneficiary due to its longstanding impact in the community.

She said that she chose Amcare because of the incredible work they do in the community.

“They care for vulnerable people who live here, and they need to be supported and protected no matter the circumstances. When the opportunity arose, I saw the need and put their name forward so that they can continue caring for those who rely on them,” Nair said.

The initiative, which took seven months to complete, included installing solar panels, batteries, and inverters to ensure a stable, continuous power supply, alongside a JoJo tank for water storage.

Together, these upgrades significantly enhance Amcare’s ability to maintain uninterrupted services and continue supporting vulnerable community members despite load shedding, power failures or water outages.

Strengthening essential services

The newly installed solar panels will enable Amcare to maintain critical operations during power outages, ensuring that offices remain functional, support services continue uninterrupted, and safety systems remain operational.

The JoJo tank provides a dependable water reserve, allowing the organisation to maintain hygiene standards, support daily programmes and respond effectively during municipal supply disruptions.

Senior advisor for stakeholder management at NTCSA, Modiegi Sibanyoni, said that the initiative forms part of the utility’s broader commitment to supporting community institutions that serve as lifelines for vulnerable groups.

“Amcare’s work touches the lives of thousands of people, often at their most vulnerable moments. By improving their access to reliable power and water, we are helping to ensure that their services remain uninterrupted, especially during times of crisis,” Sibanyoni said.

The project manager, Themba Phungwayo, emphasised that infrastructure support can have a meaningful social impact.

“This project is about more than equipment; it is about enabling continuity of care. When organisations like Amcare can operate without disruption, the entire community benefits. Reliable energy and water are fundamental to delivering consistent, dignified services,” Phungwayo said.

A boost for community-based care

Amcare general manager Marihet Infantino welcomed the donation, noting that reliable utilities are essential for sustaining community-based care.

“This support ensures that we can continue providing essential services even during load shedding or water outages. Our work is community-based and responsive, and reliable utilities are critical to maintaining dignity, safety and care for those we serve,” Infantino said.

She added that partnerships with local government, state entities and private stakeholders remain central to the organisation’s sustainability.

“Every collaboration strengthens our ability to respond to growing social needs. Support such as this not only improves our infrastructure but also reinforces the message that vulnerable communities are not forgotten,” she said.

Recognising a legacy of service

Founded in 2002 by the Alberton Methodist Church, Amcare has evolved into a multi-faceted support organisation rooted in dignity, empowerment and compassion.

Over the past two decades, it has expanded its reach through awareness campaigns, partnerships, and innovative programmes such as victim-friendly rooms at local police stations and income-generating initiatives, such as its second-hand goods shop.

Despite ongoing financial pressures common in the non-profit sector, Amcare has continued to adapt to rising social challenges, including homelessness and increased vulnerability among women, children and the elderly.

Enabling a sustainable future

NTCSA, a key player in South Africa’s energy sector, is responsible for ensuring a reliable transmission network and facilitating fair access to the electricity grid.

Through community-focused initiatives, the organisation aims to strengthen grassroots resilience while contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive energy future.

The solar installation aligns with broader efforts to promote renewable energy solutions, reduce dependence on unstable power supply and support institutions that play a critical role in social welfare.

With improved energy security and water storage capacity, Amcare is now better equipped to continue its mission of restoring hope, protecting dignity and providing life-changing support to vulnerable individuals and families regardless of service disruptions.