Fountain of Love Orphanage Centre (Floc) celebrated its 18th anniversary while commemorating Mandela Day with senior citizens at the centre in Tshongweni Section, Katlehong, on August 27.
Floc had to postpone its annual Mandela Day celebration because of lockdown. Unlike the usual event, it had to restrict the number of guests to comply with Covid-19 regulations.
Senior citizens from Nhlapo and Tshongweni sections were spoiled with lunch and blankets. They enjoyed singing and dancing to gospel music.
The event was supported by the ANC Women’s League regional office, Thuthuzela Care Centre from the Gauteng Department of Health, NPA and SAPS.
The treasurer of Floc, Portia Masango, said the fact that they did not host the annual Mandela Day event did not sit well with the founder of Floc, gogo Rosy Mthembu, because as a centre they try to show the community that they love and appreciate it.
“I know that such events are important because we always have them for the children,” said Masango.
“Today, we are also celebrating 18 years of existence. It has been a long road, some days are better than others.
“We thank God for always being with; it has been a challenging journey since last year. A lot of sponsors pulled out and we can’t provide food parcels like before.
“We ask you pray for us because when we have food parcels, we can share them,” she said.
Mthembu thanked everyone who supported the event.
She added Floc was started in 2003 as a soup kitchen helping HIV-infected people with food because most of them were taking their medication on empty stomachs.
They started helping infants and children in 2005 when they were abandoned on her doorstep.
“We are proud that we have developed other outreach programmes,” said Mthembu.
“We do soup kitchens, distribute food parcels for our aged and disabled, sanitary pads for girls and dignified packs, including roll-ons, body sprays, face cloths, toothbrushes and toothpaste to young unemployed men and boys,” she said.
Challenges
The centre has lost most of its sponsors due to the pandemic.
“We are negatively affected by Covid-19. We kindly ask for assistance with food, cleaning equipment, nappies, baby formula, stationery, sanitary pads, toiletries and volunteers who can help tutor the children in mathematics,” said Mthembu.
To donate to Floc, send an email to rosym9259@gmail.com or contact Mthembu on 074 997 5516.
