A Fourways resident has raised a heartfelt concern about the growing number of mothers begging with children at traffic lights, particularly at the Witkoppen off-ramp to Winnie Mandela Drive.

Corinna Botoulas, who witnessed the aftermath of a traumatic hit-and-run accident, said she was deeply disturbed every time she saw a mother and child sitting vulnerably in the path of fast-moving traffic.

Read more: Community come out to support the homeless and furry friends

“Surely there must be organisations that take in mothers who use their children to beg at street corners? Somebody needs to compassionately explain to them that both she and her child are in danger [of being killed or injured] while sitting at a traffic light.”

Botoulas believes that social services should intervene, not just for safety, but to offer long-term support. “Social services should check for citizenship and help with training and skills development. If they’re not South African, then maybe there’s a way to take them back home safely. But if they are local, we need places where both mother and child can get help, food, love, and skills.”

She fears that society has become numb to the sight of families on street corners, saying it causes her emotional distress just leaving her home. “It’s so painful to see a child being abused in that way. Using a child to beg breaks my heart.”
Beyond immediate help, she’s calling for consequences for those who ignore repeated warnings. “They must be told it’s illegal. If they continue to sit at traffic lights, there should be fines. It’s against the by-laws.”

Also read: Ways to report homelessness in the park

Botoulas’ plea is not just about regulation, but restoration. “We need people who care. These women need to be taken to a place where they are supported so they can change their lives and protect their children.”

Botoulas’ perspective comes from personal experience. She helped save someone’s life after they were hit by a car and left behind. “That was the most traumatic experience of my life,” she said, warning that intersections are dangerous places for anyone, let alone children.

Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy said he was also concerned about the issue. He said he had tried so many times to get social services so that they could assist the children, but was met by challenges, as most of these women were foreign nationals.

“It is not a good sight. These kids get baked by the sun, and now it is cold; it is just heartbreaking. I did call social services several times, and when we got there, we were told by the mothers that they are not their kids. Another issue is that they can’t speak English.”

The City’s social services have been contacted for their insights and feedback on the matter. We will provide an update as soon as we receive their response.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!

Related article: The homeless find caring allies in Fourways Club