Sebenza SAPS units and Croydon residents join hands for their ‘uncle’
Sebenza SAPS sector managers, social crime unit, together with CPF members, organised the cleaning of Alan Collinge’s yard.
Selfless acts of kindness were seen through the cleaning of Alan Collinge’s (86) yard on March 9.Collinge is a former chairperson for Sebenza CPF and Sebenza SAPS sector managers, social crime unit, together with CPF members, organised the cleaning of Collinge’s yard.
“We would see the state of the yard during our patrols and we realised Collinge, whom we also refer to as ‘uncle’, is an elderly man and unable to maintain the yard anymore,” said Const Sharon Tsotsotso, spokesperson for Sebenza SAPS.
“We invited the neighbours and community members, who were very happy to help.”
The volunteers brought their own tools and equipment needed for the job.
Collinge was humbled by the gesture and told Express he was unaware of the clean-up prior to the arrival of the community.
“This is a huge and pleasant surprise,” said a teary Collinge.
“I was shocked to see a group of people gathered outside my door telling me they had arrived to clean my yard. They worked really hard and I am extremely grateful for what they have done for me.”
The grass and weeds were hip high in certain areas.
Ward 17 committee members and Croydon CPF members were also part of the clean-up that involved mowing, raking and cutting.
Tsotsotso said ward councillor Simon Lapping provided water and gloves while Andrew Mosesi, chairperson for Sebenza CPF and Cluster Community Police Board, helped coordinate the clean-up.
Tsotsotso thanked the sector managers, including Sgt Barbara Tshunungwa, Const Xolani Mlambo, Const Sam Mashalane and Const Brenda Kgadima, who assisted.
“Another big thank you goes to the community who came out in numbers to be part of this initiative, it really means a lot to uncle.
“We also noticed there are a number of elderly men and women who are unable to maintain their yards and homes. We, therefore, ask the community to unite and not get tired when we call them again to join us in assisting our elderly,” said Tsotsotso.“We would also appreciate donations of garden and cleaning services to clean-up these yards and homes for free.”
