NC Vala Umgodi team comes together for day of community service
The Operation Vala Umgodi team in the Northern Cape came together for a day of community service. Picture: SAPS
THE OPERATION Vala Umgodi multi-disciplinary team in the Northern Cape celebrated Mandela Day on July 18 under the theme “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality”.
The SA Police Service (SAPS) and SA National Defence Force (SANDF) members comprising the team elected to celebrate the day at Shalom Day Care Centre in Greenpoint, Kimberley, and at the Kleinzee School for Children with Special Needs and the Kleinzee Crèche.
Led by Colonel Judy Gogotya (SAPS) and Captain Danny Masebe (SANDF), the Kimberley team visited the Shalom Day Care Centre. This multi-faceted early childhood development (ECD) institution extends its impact beyond its walls by providing daily meals to the Diamond Park/Greenpoint community through their soup kitchen.
The Vala Umgodi team collaborated with other stakeholders to donate food and cooking utensils to the centre. They also dedicated the day to cleaning a previously neglected open space in front of the care centre.
The Greenpoint community and the children were also treated to a warm meal prepared in the centre’s kitchen.
The team in Kleinzee, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Gert Nel (SAPS) and Lieutenant Maddock (SANDF), also made a significant impact on the local community. Their collective efforts resulted in the opening of a sandpit play park at a local crèche, a project constructed by the SANDF members.
Their generosity didn’t stop there. The team continued their mission by distributing thoughtful gifts and goodies, including toiletries, to the Kleinzee School for Children with Special Needs. This gesture aimed to improve the well-being of these vulnerable children.
In addition, the Kleinzee community received warm soup and bread during a gathering in an open veld.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam emphasised that this collective effort remains crucial in addressing the root causes of crime. By supporting the most vulnerable members of their community, the team contributes to a safer and more secure environment for all.
