It is Marietha’s calling to keep community safe

Being in danger is always a reality in the life of a cop – whether it is from chasing down criminals or working on the frontline and thus being more exposed to Covid-19 than the average citizen. “If everyone adheres to the regulations, then those working on the frontlines will also be able to go home to their families without the constant worry of possible infection,” explained W/O Wright. Despite the verbal abuse a police officer often has to endure when enforcing the law, especially on lockdown regulations, they do what is required of the job to keep the community safe. W/O Wright is a wife, a mother and a grandmother and concerned about the welfare of her loved ones, her friends and her community. This is one of the reasons why she and her daughter, Antwanai, created a Covid-19 awareness group on WhatsApp where they daily share statistics, government regulations, advice and legitimate information concerning the pandemic. “I believe it is necessary to keep people informed and thus stop the spread of unnecessary panic.” W/O Wright is also part of a small group that reached out to the elderly residents of Davies Court during the lockdown. “It was especially difficult on the senior citizens when the lock down began, because their movements were restricted and they were not allowed visits from their children and friends. We collected items, magazines, books, puzzles, games, materials and wool which we sanitised and then delivered to the elderly.” The group even received food donations which they distributed among the residents. “I can see in their eyes and smiles how much a little human interaction means to them.” She thanked the public of Secunda for the contributions they made during the lockdown period. Food, clothes for children and adults, and especially the reading material. “It warms my heart to see that Secunda residents still care and open their hearts to other people during this hard and difficult times. I still receive clothes donations and toys for children and will still distribute these donations. “On behalf of my family, I thank you very much.”