Every year, on 18 July, South Africans are encouraged to spend 67 minutes of their time to volunteer their services for social and charitable projects. This is to acknowledge the life of the late SA president, Nelson Mandela, whose life was dedicated to the freedom struggle in South Africa. South Africans are asked to involve themselves in local and national projects aimed at uplifting communities with the aim of making a difference. The call to ‘take action, inspire change and to make everyday a Mandela Day’ resonates strongly with the values of BAPS Charities
BAPS Charities has supported the Barcelona Settlement in the Daveyton community for the past 10 years. During this period, volunteers have supported the community by donating food supplies, clothing, blankets and regular health care services.
In celebration of Mandela Day 2016, BAPS Charities donated a classroom to the Barcelona community. A shipping container was procured and converted into a classroom with space for tables, chairs, book stands and a black board. This would provide the community with the opportunity to empower themselves through education. Previously, the children did not have any facility, and would attend classes under a makeshift shed. During winter and rainy weather this would become disruptive for them.
Nelson Mandela has said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is with this sentiment that BAPS Charities hope to make a small difference to this community which will last a lifetime.
