Community joins forces to combat underage drinking

The JMPD in partnership with the Beer Association of South Africa to educate Zenzeleni Primary School learners on the dangers of underage drinking while providing essential school uniforms to those in need.

JMPD-Alexandra

The Beer Association of South Africa (Basa) outlined the dangers of underage alcohol consumption to the learners of Zenzeleni Primary School on August 16.
This was during their visit to donate 21 full school uniforms to the learners.
The initiative was made possible by Basa in collaboration with the female officers of the JMPD Region E Unit.
During the donation ceremony, Basa engaged with the learners, sharing critical information to deter them from drinking alcohol at a tender age.

The association’s commitment to community education underscores the belief that prevention and awareness are key to addressing the issue of underage drinking.

Basa CEO Charlene Louw said, “We leapt at the chance to work alongside the JMPD in addressing this community issue, particularly during Women’s Month.

“Basa is committed to working with various stakeholders to build strong communities, with a focus on educating young people about the dangers and consequences of underage drinking. Drinking and studying do not go hand in hand.”

The joint effort was initiated when JMPD officers noticed that many learners at Zenzeleni Primary School lacked proper shoes and uniforms. In response, the officers took the issue to their superiors, leading to a fundraising initiative that first aimed to provide shoes.

Also read: JMPD recovers two vehicles in Alexandra

However, it became clear that a more comprehensive solution was needed to equip the children for their educational journey.

Basa went beyond providing shoes and decided to supply complete school uniforms to enhance the learners’ confidence and school experience. Female pupils received shoes, a tunic, socks, and a jersey, while male pupils received shoes, pants, long-sleeve shirts, a jersey, and socks.

JMPD inspector Mapontso Mohlamunyane said, “Our women’s group saw this as an opportunity to play a mother’s role to disadvantaged members of the community we protect. This initiative demonstrates how a caring police force understands what its community needs, and how policing contributes to society more broadly.”