Reaching out to the street-children

Lerato Maleke | Friday February 27, 2015 14:29

James, a Christian, believes that as a human being, the more you stretch your hand out to help, the more you receive in return.

The Cambridge student, who sat for his exams at Mogoditshane Senior Secondary last year, says he formed the organisation together with 15 other classmates who have since left.

“They were there before when we formed the organisation but after our exams they left,” he explains.

Only one, the acting secretary, shows up to help. The desertion has not discouraged James and he plans to officially launch the organisation on June 13 at Mogoditshane Senior.

“The school head, Obusitswe Motlhageng, has been supportive and has allowed me to launch the project,” he says.

“Anyone who is willing to join can and anyone can attend the launch.

“We will be registering new members to form a new committee since the previous one was disbanded.”

Asked why streets kids, James explains that he was touched by their plight and felt the need to contribute in changing their lives.The Good Samaritan approached the police for help and was informed that there is no law against sniffing glue.

He decided that help would come from uplifting and encouraging the street children.

Every morning he meets the boys at 8am at the Bus Station and they decide on a schedule.

“We ask for donations, go around wash vehicles and from what we collect I buy them food and toiletry and they take it home,” he explains.

“I have a problem with shops that sell glue to these kids. Some hawkers at  Gaborone Station send these boys on errands and pay them.

“That money goes towards glue.’’