“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This African proverb succinctly and accurately describes the brave members of the Lentegeur Community watch who received a very special and well-deserved gift today. Action Society, together with the Embassy of the Czech Republic, arranged a 12m³ container where members can convene before and after their patrolling shifts.
This container is a symbol of their unwavering bravery and is a marked upgrade from the small wooden shed from which they used to conduct their operations. It is equipped with solar power, clothing and radios for improved communication.
The Lentegeur community has proven time and time again that a community that looks after itself is the strongest community. About 60 members of this small community escort their children to school in a ‘walking bus’ and patrol the streets in an area that is riddled with gang activity.
Juanita du Preez and Daniel Eloff from Action Society as well as members of the embassy spoke about the importance of community safety in South Africa. Also in attendance was Hon. Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee of Police. Glenda Arendse, Head of the Lentegeur Neighbourhood watch received the container on behalf of the community.
“When the Czech Republic sought a project to support, Action Society knew the Lentegeur Neighbourhood Watch was clearly the best candidate,” said Action Society spokesperson Juanita du Preez.
“We wanted to ensure these ladies and gentlemen have a safe place to congregate during shifts and be safe during their patrols. This space should also be a beacon of safety for the community. Thus, the Lentegeur Neighbourhood Watch Container Project was born.”
“The 12m³ container is big enough for members to convene before and after shifts and to store their brand-new safety equipment. Community members can find safety and advice at the container. With their new high-visibility vests, the Lentegeur Neighbourhood Watch members will be easily distinguishable in the community.”
“We applaud all the roleplayers in making this dream a reality and hope that it will serve as the blueprint for many other community safety projects,” concluded du Preez.
