Correctional Services collaborate to bring Christmas cheer to the community of Refilwe
The Department of Social Development and Community Corrections identified the recipients, among whom were six parolees under the care of Zonderwater Community Corrections.
The Zonderwater Correctional Officials Club joined hands on December 19 with a supermarket in Cullinan and the Department of Social Development.
Together, they orchestrated a heartfelt pre-Christmas event, weaving warmth and hope into the tapestry of the underprivileged community of Refilwe in Cullinan.
Tivani Makasane, acting as both the chairperson of the recreational club and the Area Commissioner of Zonderwater, emphasised the significance of extending support during the festive season.
“This is the time to be jolly and display love and compassion to the less privileged,” said Makasane.
The Department of Social Development and Community Corrections identified the recipients, among whom were six parolees under the care of Zonderwater Community Corrections.
This collaboration aimed to assist and spread festive cheer among those in need.
A Social Auxiliary Worker from the Department of Social Development highlighted the fulfilment derived from witnessing the happiness brought about by such provisions.
Expressing gratitude for the community’s cooperation and the involvement of all stakeholders, she emphasised the meaningful impact such initiatives have on people’s lives.
Representing Cullinan Spar Supermarket, Buti Zide conveyed his immense joy in participating in initiatives geared toward supporting communities, especially recognising the high unemployment rate prevalent among Refilwe residents.
Zide committed to making next year’s event even more impactful and beneficial for the community.
The recipients, including Winnie Sibiya and Boikgantso Magongwa, conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the sponsors’ efforts.
Sibiya expressed delight, acknowledging the substantial support the food parcels would provide for herself and her two grandchildren.
Magongwa, a 20-year-old residing in a family headed by siblings, expressed appreciation for gestures like these that keep them going.
“With today’s food parcels, we will be able to have a proper Christmas celebration,” said Magongwa.
Mandlenkosi Hlatshwayo, the acting club manager and the initiator of this benevolent initiative, extended appreciation to the sponsors for their continuous support in rehabilitating and reintegrating offenders.
Hlatshwayo encouraged the six parolees to continue spreading the message of rehabilitation through the work of Correctional Services.
Mashudu Mutamba, communication manager at Zonderwater Correctional Services said their collaboration efforts showcased their commitment by the Zonderwater Correctional Services in partnership with various entities to uplift communities, spread joy during the festive season, and support the reintegration of offenders into society.
