‘Drugs maak kla, Jesus maak nxa’
Florida residents took their message against drug abuse right into the heart of drug territory.
Residents of Florida took to the streets on Saturday, June 22 in a show of strength and unity against drug abuse.
The event was organised by Florida-based rehabilitation organisation, Freedom Recovery Centre, in collaboration with various other local organisations and ministries to shine a light on the serious drug problem that Florida faces.
Florida police and Gauteng Traffic Wardens ensured that the event took place safely.
According to Sylvester Sauls, founder of Freedom Recovery Centre, the event was held to bring attention to this prominent problem that affects hundreds of families within the local community, but also as a show of force aimed at the drug dealers.
“We felt called by God to spread a message of hope and strength against despair. We marched right through the heart of the drug dealers’ territory, not to confront them, but to show them that we would not let them continue with their evil activities undisturbed.
“We are not afraid of them and we will bring our message right into their stronghold.”
Hundreds of community members, led by pastors and the marching band from the First Florida Scouts, marched from the now notorious Plaza Street in Florida to the Florida Train Station in Ruth Street, where the gathered residents engaged in fervent prayer, followed by a lively praise and worship session.
From the top of the pedestrian tunnel in Ruth Street, the Roodepoort Record noticed alleged local drug peddlers keeping a close eye on proceedings. Journalist Johan Meyer noticed barely 100 metres down the street, a shirtless man, despite the crispness of the breeze, leaning against a street light pole, a rubber band wrapped loosely around his arm, and a needle attached to a small pink injection dangling from his vein.
Organisations that took part included Mighty Men of God, Jesus Maak Nxa, A Second Chance Recovery Centre, Alabama Taking Back Your Community, From Gangs to Grace, Victory Outreach, Glow for Jesus, Elizabeth Walk, KCCC Foundation, Beresmith, Crystal Legacy Men, Unrestricted Favour, and the Future Drummers Project.
For more information or assistance, contact Sylvester on 068 257 8919.
