Community outreach honours Mandela’s spirit of service
Law enforcement, community groups and NGOs partnered to distribute essential items and promote safety and wellbeing in the Mkhancwa informal settlement.
Brakpan SAPS collaborated with the EMPD social crime prevention unit, the Bold and Brave Youth Foundation, 2nd Chance Care and Recovery Centre, Thabang Xaba Foundation, Siyabangena patrollers, and CPF patrollers from the Mkhancwa informal settlement on July 18 to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service while promoting community engagement and social responsibility.
The outreach was held in the informal settlement, where law enforcement officials and stakeholders reflected on their commitment to community service and fostering a culture of civic engagement.
Community members were addressed by Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi and EMPD warden Mpho Mogapi on crime and gender-based violence (GBV).
Representatives from 2nd Chance Care and Recovery Centre and the Thabang Xaba Foundation also addressed the community on the services they provide.
According to Buthelezi, local police and stakeholders joined forces to give back to the community with the aim of building trust, enhancing community relations and contributing to long-term social sustainability.
They distributed donations, including clothing, school uniforms, blankets and household utensils.
Men, women and children of all ages received donations, while the local clinic offered child immunisations and HIV testing.
Community members thanked law enforcement officials and stakeholders for the initiative and expressed their appreciation for their visibility in the area.
As a token of appreciation, a local dance group performed several items for the visitors.
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“Giving back to the community is a multifaceted practice that benefits all. It strengthens social ties, enhances reputation, and supports sustainable growth,” said Buthelezi.
“The centre of Mandela’s values is service and social responsibility, unity and diversity, social justice and human rights, perseverance, and resilience.
“Brakpan SAPS answered the global call to action that emphasises the power of individual and collaborative efforts to make a positive impact.
“By doing so, the SAPS is encouraging people to live by Mandela’s principles every day, not just on July 18.”
