BDF donates to Pelegano support group

NDINGILILO GAOSWEDIWE
Correspondent | Wednesday August 5, 2009 00:00

Before presenting the money, Second Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier Letsogile Motsumi said good health for all is a necessity as the nation moves towards Vision 2016.

BDF also wanted to make Pelegano's first anniversary successful and encourage Pelegano's staff to continue helping those who have been afflicted by different illnesses in Makaleng and its environs. 

'We saw it necessary to contribute or be involved so that we give more energy to those who have devoted more time to voluntary work,' said Motsumi.

Motsumi also expressed gratitude to the staff members who recognised the existence of BDF by asking for support.

Pelegano support group is a community based non-profit organisation that encourages community members to live positively by proving quality care, social support, and counseling to alleviate poverty and ill health.  Thus building a moral and tolerant nation for a prosperous future.

The group that greatly survives through donations from different organisations and clubs also provides psychological support to the aged, blind and those who have fallen victims of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Pelegano Support group serves the villages of Toteng, Botalaote, Matenge and Makaleng. Giving a vote of thanks, councillor Damien Thapa said that Botswana was very fortunate to be blessed with a defence force that 'protects and participates' in community activities.

'We are very fortunate because your (BDF) core business is to defend this country but you also have a heart, a civilian defense force that extends a helping hand to the needy,' he said.

Thapa said that the group provides psychological therapy so that the sick, blind and the aged do not lose hope in life.

He said that some patients have been healed and are no longer taken for therapy.

The centre also provides breakfast and lunch to the patients during weekdays.

Through funds from Global Fund the group managed to secure a twin cab car that is used to transport the patients on daily basis.

Thapa said the donation was a special gift and urged participants to make donations of any kind to the centre.