PRESS RELEASE
EMBARGO : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TO : ALL MEDIA
DATE : TUESDAY 18TH DECEMBER, 2007
RE: “POVERTY ALLEVIATION, A SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY”,
MEC MODISELLE
Christmas, a time of giving and sharing, arrived early for 48 child-headed and poverty stricken families in the villages of Lokaleng and Magogoe andMafikeng. Two old age homes, Rotarus club and Lapa la Botlhe aged care centre, as well as Lomanyaneng Community AIDS Project were among the beneficiaries of the Department of Finance Social Responsibility Project.
“The celebration of the 2007 International Human Rights Day is a clear indication that the world is becoming more and more concerned about the fact that each person, whether poor or rich has the right to live life to the fullest. However, the poorest of the poor can never enjoy life to the fullest if they are constantly being stared in the face by poverty and circumstances that circumscribe their freedom”, said MEC Modiselle before she distributed assorted provisions, clothes, shoes etc. to identified families and other members of the Lokaleng and Magogoe Communities on Wednesday 12th of December.
Before distributing the items, MEC Modiselle reminded the residents of the village that the Department of Finance is moving out from its original mandate of managing the provincial budget to that of getting involved in the socio-economic development of poorer communities through the personal contributions of the staff. “Through our departmental social responsibility project we are convinced that donating food hampers, linen, clothes, etc., to needy families at this time of the year, will really make a difference in their lives”, said MEC Modiselle.
“At this time of the year, a period of love and goodwill, we are therefore here to share the little that we have with some of you in this community for you to put something on your tables,” said MEC Modiselle who wished everyone a safe and peaceful festive season.
MEC Modiselle further expressed her heartfelt gratitude to International School of South Africa and Mmabatho Tusk who supported the project by donating blankets and bed sheets. As a joint effort and to show solidarity with the Department of Finance, the International School of South Africa also donated various items such as school uniforms and bed sheets. Other items were donated by departmental staff who opened their hearts and wallets in aid of the poor
“This is a wonderful gesture from the department and we thank them for making a difference in the lives of people who find it hard to fend for themselve,” said Councillor Leon Kotze who was present during the distribution ceremony.
A 58 year old pensioner Bobby Makampa, who could hardly conceal his excitement, said he will never forget the day because the items he received would go a long way to improve his life. “Who would give anyone food items and clothes for free? These will help me a great deal and I am very happy to have been among the beneficiaries of the Department of Finance social Responsibility Project” he said.
“Poverty is a big problem as well as a huge challenge in our village. This humanitarian gesture from the Department of Finance is greatly welcomed because the needy in this village will have something to eat,” Chief Phenyo Motshegare reacted during his vote of thanks.
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