Internationally recognised day focuses on family wellness

In partnership with the Department of Social Development, SAPS, Boksburg Child Welfare and other local NGOs, Famsa organised an event for the residents of Ramaphosa and Reiger Park, to celebrate the International Day of Families.

During the event, held at the Living Waters Assembly of God in Ramaphosa Extension Two, attendees received information on how to deal with domestic violence, child abuse, substance abuse and other social ills.

They were also given advice on parenting and who to turn to for help, whenever they encounter issues relating to families.

Attendees were also reminded that building strong families is not only the government’s responsibility.

For that reason, residents were encouraged to work with authorities to prevent family breakdown, promote functional families who are peaceful and able to provide support and comfort to their family members.

The event also focused on poverty issues, and work-family balance issues for families.

The event organiser, Famsa’s Suzan Dube, said the event was aimed at uniting the residents and informing them about the importance of family life, while also creating awareness of all the socials ills responsible for family breakdowns – such as substance abuse, violence against women, children and people with disability.

Speakers during the event included Aby Mahwayi (Christian Social Council), Angie Reiners (Ithemba Victim Support Centre), Reiger Park CPF chairperson Pastor Francis Coetzee, Dudu Siluma (Department of Social Development’s social worker), Const Jan Mokwana (Reiger Park SAPS) and others.

The crowd was entertained by local dancers, including Phakamani Dance Group, Ramaphosa Drama Group and a dance performance by a group of Basotho women. -@FanieFLK