The Greenside Residents Association (GRA) reflected on a challenging year that passed, thanking residents for their ongoing donations, time and support during 2020.
Chairperson of the association Judith Ancer highlighted the success of their first-ever Green Day in February.
The association together with community members cleaned up Sir Lionel Phillips Park above Pirates Club by picking up litter, painting the park’s jungle gym and treating poles with creosote.
“We wanted to create a day that encourages Greenside residents and local businesses to get to know each other, build pride in our neighbourhood and create a sense of community,” she said.
The association also launched their Green Crew to keep their suburb clean and green. The crew worked to pick up litter, cut back overgrown areas and weeds in Greenside’s parks, road reserves and pavements. They also worked to clear illegal dumping.
The association rallied to support families in need through donations of food, clothing, toiletries and other household items during lockdown.
“The GRA collated and supplied essential information during lockdown this year. We informed residents of relevant information, including lockdown hours, regulations, open businesses and business hours.”
Security has been reprioritised in the neighbourhood with two channels of accountability – law enforcement agencies and CAP security.
The association also initiated and managed street WhatsApp groups to facilitate community building, share information and resources, and empower residents and businesses to report service delivery problems.
Ancer said fundraising was a particular challenge during tough financial times.
The association looks forward to the completion of roadworks on Gleneagles Road and Greenway, which has been a frustration to commuters and business owners alike.
Ancer said the association had worked hard to engage all relevant role-players in the Greenway/Gleneagles business strip in an attempt to find a sustainable solution to curb the challenges of reckless driving and illegal land use, and restore peace to the suburb.
Ancer advised residents to remain vigilant of crime during the festive season. She said residents should engage with security companies and ensure that all technical components such as alarms were in good working order and educate domestic staff and arrange for a neighbour or trusted friend to take care of their house while away.
“2020 has been an incredibly challenging year for many people. Loss, change and uncertainty have seen a significant increase in stress and anxiety. We encourage residents to try and use this opportunity to recharge and empower themselves ahead of 2021.”
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