GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Assemblies of God Church in Asherville hosted a celebration for the International Day of Families on 21 May, organised by Social Development in partnership with various stakeholder departments.
The event aimed to promote family prosperity and raise awareness about the social, economic and demographic changes affecting families.
The International Day of Families, observed annually on 15 May, highlights the important role families play in society.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, this day emphasises the challenges families face and promotes values such as love, respect and support. It provides an opportunity for families to reconnect and strengthen their bonds.
Various stakeholders participated in the event, discussing family building, values, rights and care. These included the Department of Health, Department of Home Affairs, Sassa, Office of the Family Advocate, Saps, Department of Correctional and Probation Services, Legal Aid Agency, Vuyani Child and Youth Care Centre, Foundation for Alcohol Related Research, Tada (Teenagers Against Drug Abuse), Capitec Bank and Metropolitan Insurance.
Sassa area manager Zamile Booi
Social Development led the programme, emphasising that building a caring society starts with strong family morals and values. Dr Creswell Pieterse from the Department of Health talked about pregnancy, baby growth, and essential care.
The Department of Home Affairs, represented by area manager Nosithembile Possa, covered the registration of births, marriages and deaths, also urging citizens to switch from green ID books to more secure smart ID cards.
Community members in the audience, from left: Jeffrey Amsterdam, Elvis Grootboom, Sarie Grootboom and Lizzie Titus.
Sassa area manager Zamile Booi discussed social grants and child support, while Social Development's Busisiwe Mabengwana spoke about improving the quality of life for the poor and vulnerable, focusing on women, older persons, youth, and people with disabilities.
Cladio Leonard of Saps addressed the importance of preventing family abuse and child neglect.
The event provided valuable information and resources to the community, reinforcing the importance of family values and support in building a caring society.
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