Emergency services team delivers safety and care to young learners

Thandokazi Pre-School and Creche in the L&J informal settlement outside Olifantsfontein received a special Mandela Day visit when the City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS), together with various stakeholders, joined forces to give back to the school community.
The initiative brought together officials from DEMS, the city’s communication, marketing and tourism, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, Gauteng Provincial Fire Services, SASOL and Eskom as part of their 67 Minutes dedicated to the legacy of former president Nelson Mandela.
Led by DEMS divisional head for disaster management Shadi Mlokoti, officials visited the pre-school on July 18 to present donations to principal Bellinah Khombani, staff members and the young learners.
DEMS media liaison officer William Ntladi said the event included a range of donations aimed at supporting both the children and the school.
“The event commenced at 08:00 on Saturday morning, led by Mrs Mlokoti, who delivered a keynote address.
“Donations included groceries, packs of nappies, toilet paper, soccer balls, 50 lunch boxes for all 50 toddlers at the pre-school, mini first aid kits, activity booklets and mattresses to supplement those already available at the creche,” said Ntladi.
“As part of improving safety at the facility, smoke alarms were also installed in each room as a precautionary life-safety measure.”
Khombani welcomed the donations and expressed her appreciation to all the stakeholders who contributed towards the initiative.
The children were treated to a day of activities, including a meal prepared by chefs among the officials. While the food was being prepared, other participants assisted with painting and decorating walls at the pre-school.
Ward 89 Clr Tshoarelo Pudi also attended the event and thanked the stakeholders for their contribution. He also joined in the activities by showcasing his drawing skills during the wall painting.