‘Angel from God’ keeps the needy warm
The Alberton SAPS’ Rika Cordier has proved it doesn’t take much to make a difference, and she is on a quest to bring about change.
“You are an angel from God,” were the words uttered by a senior who recently benefited from Rika Cordier’s generous initiative.
Making a difference to those in need brings much contentment to Cordier, and she strongly advocates against abuse because she has endured and risen above it.
Cordier performs administrative duties at the Alberton Police Station, where she has worked since 2013. She previously worked at the Booysens, Mondeor, and Moffat View SAPS.
Besides being a public servant, she is a philanthropist who frequently crochets blankets and clothing items to give to those in need.
Her love for crocheting began when she first saw the project led by Anja Group, where they would offer comfortable crocheted blankets.
She is also part of Maak ‘n Verskil (Make a Difference), Mariette Reachout, Anja Group and Jobertonners, groups whose mission is to make a difference to those in need.
“I’m busy with a winter drive, crocheting scarves and beanies for the homeless. With the help of one of my groups, I’m making coverings for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Next year, I intend on going bigger by making slippers, socks and blankets for the police retirement village,” she said.
In her quest to empower the impoverished, she has joined hands with the station’s Sergeant Granny Moepcoe and Bianca Zambetti to teach individuals to crochet and sell those items to have an income.
“I feel there are too many people without jobs, and I want to make a difference and empower them. With this project, we’ll start in our policing precinct and move to other areas. There is a great need out there, and I feel that if we can assist, then we should with the little we have,” she explained.
Cordier has always wanted to become a social worker because of her love for helping people overcome some of life’s most difficult challenges. After being in the force for many years, her affection for the abused, the elderly, the frail and the disabled has grown immensely.
Being in the force allows her to reach out to several people through her projects.
To donate to the sustainability of her project, contact Bianca Zambetti on 083 393 7612.
