Secunda police and correctional services bring hope to Impumelelo Drop-In Centre

The Public Order Police Unit in Secunda, in partnership with the Department of Correctional Services, marked the end of Mandela Month on July 31 by giving back to the community of eMbalenhle.

The officers donated food, blankets, and their time to clean the Impumelelo Drop-In Centre in the Mandela section, eMbalenhle. This gesture was made possible through contributions from the officers’ own pockets, with the aim of changing the lives of vulnerable children at the centre.

Mary Potwana, founder of the centre, explained the inspiration behind her initiative, “Through my experience in the community, I saw how children were being abused, neglected, or even left homeless.

Some are abandoned on the streets. As someone who loves children deeply, I found it heartbreaking to witness this,” said Potwana.

“With the support of my family, I began providing shelter for these children in my home from 2006 until 2009, when I officially established the Drop-In Centre.

“Today, we not only support children but also assist unemployed individuals through our nutrition program by providing them with one meal a day,” she added.

The centre also ensures that children receive school uniforms, homework assistance, and teenage counselling. Both SAPS and Correctional Services committed to returning to paint the facility, furthering their support.

The Govan Mbeki Municipality executive mayor, Nhlakanipho Zuma, also contributed by donating blankets and paint to the centre.