Child protection hotline launches initiative to recognise those who make a difference in children’s lives
“We need to get the message out there so that our children know where to go for help. At the end of the day, our mission and vision are to serve and protect our children,” said Van Loggerenberg.
Centurion child protection hotline launched a new campaign to acknowledge and celebrate the people who stand up for children.
The founder of the hotline, Danie van Loggerenberg, handed over certificates to Sergeant Kenny Manyemula and Captain Dave Miller (both of the Lyttelton police station), ward councillor, Ina Strijdom and JP le Roux (of Monitor Net), who play a crucial role in the protection of children.
Now it is in the community’s hands to nominate their Centurion heroes by sending a WhatsApp to 071 192 0569.
“The competition will run for a month or two, where anyone can nominate a hero who makes a difference in our children’s lives.
“We are looking forward to a great year and we want to expand our programme by visiting pre-primary, primary as well as high schools.
“We need to get the message out there so that our children know where to go for help. At the end of the day, our mission and vision are to serve and protect our children,” said Van Loggerenberg.
Community heroes are people who stand up against bullying, child protection, abuse and neglect.
“It can be anyone who stands up for the kids that feel that they have no voice.
“All of the role players involved, work overtime to serve our children and we are privileged to have a team that goes beyond measures to be their voice,” he said.
Miller thanked Van Loggerenberg and his team for their recognition.
“It has been been a long path that we have walked together.
“When we started, we only had one hotline in Centurion. As we were able to expose ourselves in terms of getting to visit the schools and when they noticed what we do, they realise the value that they were getting out of our visits,” he said.
“From the police’s perspective, we have a school safety project. It is getting easier to speak to the children and we have had so much positive response and involvement from the schools,” said Miller.
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Strijdom said people are sceptical or scared to step forward when it comes to molestation or abuse.
“The initiative will create a platform for people to come forward. Our aim is to hopefully not only help one child, but when one child comes forward, more will realise that we are here to listen.
“We deal with sensitive cases, but we need to stand up for our children,” she said.
Le Roux of Monitor Net said that they have been involved with the hotline for over six years.
“Centurion is our home, and it is close to my heart to be involved with the hotline to keep our children safe.
“It’s an honour to be part of the hotline and we will keep on working closely with Danie and his team in the future,” he said.
On Thursday, the 57th child protection hotline service will be launched in Sebenza, in Kempton Park.
The Centurion branch first opened its doors in 2019.
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