July 27, 2006
By Tabisa Mntengwana
WITH winter at its peak, Ivory Park residents were elated when executive mayor Amos Masondo distributed 65 blankets to vulnerable children on Tuesday 25 July at Lord Khanyile Hall.
The handover was part of the Mayoral Aids Fund project, which supports individuals and families affected and infected by the virus.
Mayoral Committee Member for Health Matshidiso Mfikoe, Executive Mayor Amos Masondo and Ward Councillor Joseph Mahlanga handing over blankets to needy families
"The children will now have warmer and better nights, and as the City we urge the community to also help wherever they can," said Masondo.
The children who received the blankets were identified by Jozi Ihlomile volunteers through their Adopt-a-Block programme. The volunteers are part of the City's social services department.
According to Masondo, the programme has helped many families with support, HIV/Aids education and counselling.
In addition, the City of Johannesburg will distribute 800 blankets to needy children around the city.
"The City cares for orphans and is planning to help them not to wander around without warmth and comfort," said Masondo.
Mayoral committee member for health Matshidiso Mfikoe told families who received the blankets, "I hope the blankets will not be kept in the wardrobes but will be used tonight."
In December 2005, Masondo distributed buckets of groceries to vulnerable families - from bed-ridden and elderly people looking after orphans to families with minimal or no financial support.
"As a community we have a duty to take care of these families, not only supporting them financially, but also ensuring that they are healthy both physically and emotionally," said the City's health services deputy director, Meisie Lerutla.
So far 3 000 families have benefited from the Mayoral Aids Fund, which was formed in 2005. The Mayoral Aids Fund committee has planned to visit more families in need during the festive season to distribute buckets of groceries.
"Towards the end of this year we will distribute similar parcels to 2 000 people before Christmas," said Masondo.
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