Going beyond the call of duty
For some people, when you mention community service, they think of the kind ordered by the court.
That is not the case with Ms Sarah Lekota.
Ms Lekota is a Betrams resident, and a captain in the SAPS, who runs a feeding scheme for those who do not have the means to provide for themselves. The feeding scheme is run from her own home in Berea Street.
“If only we could learn to help each other when in need, but through God, he will always provide,” said Ms Lekota. She is an officer at the Edenvale SAPS who said she was touched by the number of people who are homeless, hopeless and with nothing to eat in her area. She feeds children and women every Wednesday and Sunday.
“The number of young women with babies and the level of unemployment really moved me. I use faith and hope to build them and let them know that not all is lost,” said Ms Lekota.
She says people should show unity in their communities. “I’m not well off but I try to help where I can. People should show more concern about what is happening around them,” said Ms Lekota.
She started the feeding scheme in 2004 and said she is struggling to keep up with the number of people who need help.
“I get worried when Christmas time approaches, as it is then that people with no income feel hopeless,” said Ms Lekota.
She said her children have come to accept that they share their home with others. “We appreciate all the help we receive from good Samaritans and urge them to continue doing the best they can for their community,” said Ms Lekota.
