By Lerato Mutlanyane

Joy rippled through Botshabelo on Friday, 19 December 2025, as MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure Dibolelo Mance delivered 100 grocery food parcels to some of the township’s most vulnerable residents.

Smiles and excitement lit up the faces of beneficiaries as the MEC set aside her demanding schedule to lead a hands-on festive outreach, turning compassion into action.

As part of the government’s commitment to giving back, three centres were selected during the 2024/25 financial year to benefit from the initiative: Tokoloho Disabled Care Centre in Ward 36, Tiisetso Mental Health Centre in Ward K, and Mohau Old Age Centre in Ward 34. The programme targets people living with disabilities, mental health patients, and the elderly.

Mance said the initiative is deeply personal to her, as a parent of two autistic children.

“Supporting people living with disabilities requires courage and love,” she said, praising Tokoloho Centre manager Mary Mbewu for her dedication.

The MEC confirmed the programme will rotate annually. “Last year we were in Bloemfontein, this year Botshabelo, and next year Thaba Nchu. We want to reach every centre,” she said.

She stressed that the festive season is a particularly difficult period for many families. “This is when support matters most. These food parcels allow families to celebrate Christmas with dignity.”

The centres, which face ongoing financial strain, welcomed the intervention, implemented in partnership with the Department of Social Development.

Ward 37 councillor Mmota Simon Ramolelle said the Tokoloho Centre plays a critical role, serving residents in the U, V, W, S and R sections of Wards 36 and 37.

Beyond festive cheer, Mance used the event to raise alarm over gender-based violence and femicide in Mangaung.

“Christmas should be a time of joy, yet we continue to see women killed and children violated. We must remain vigilant and act together to stop this,” she said.

Mance concluded by wishing communities a safe, joyful Christmas and a prosperous 2026.