Atlas Copco, fully committed to supporting the community, turned this year’s Mandela Day into a really special occasion by dedicating their 67 minutes with the donation of groceries to Amcare and Lambano Children’s Sanctuary. “Not only is it a celebration of a great man’s birthday but it is also an opportunity to do something meaningful for those who are in need,” according to Atlas Copco South Africa’s Corporate Communications Manager, Kgothatso Masekela. It allows us, as Atlas Copco, to be a good corporate citizen which is one of our mandates for sustainability.” Masekela says, “Nelson Mandela is seen as an icon to the world and the United Nations recognises his birthday on 18th July as an international ‘do good’ day. He dedicated 67 years to the South African struggle hence making Mandela Day the day to dedicate 67 minutes to a worthy cause.”

Amcare Community Health Care Training Academy, based in Alberton, has been part of the community for eleven years. The facility runs a weekly food parcel programme which, according to Masekela, is very costly. “We have been working with Amcare for 7 years and our donation helps to alleviate some of these extra costs. Masekela, who has spent some time at Lambano in the Wychwood, Germiston community, says, “They really run a good programme including a hospice. I only recently started a relationship with Lambano when I again made contact with Portia Mlangeni with whom I worked on our 2012 Mandela Day project while she was with another institution.”

Established in 2001, the sanctuary accepts children who have been abandoned or orphaned, especially those affected by HIV/Aids. Lambano provides a loving home environment for 30 children with five houses making up the entire organisation. Recognising the vulnerability of these children, Lambano nurtures them and gives them the necessary physical, emotional and spiritual care, so that they grow up to become productive members of society. Lambano opened a Hospice in 2009, and has received 60 patients to date. Funding is received from the government including donations from the corporate sector.

The groceries were donated by Atlas Copco staff members and, according to Masekela, this provided a perfect way for everyone at Atlas Copco to contribute 67 minutes of their time. “Some of the staff members also helped to deliver to and unpack the groceries at the sanctuaries on 18th July.” Masekela extends a sincere thank you to Atlas Copco and all the help received from those who contributed. “What a great opportunity to do something meaningful on this special day in July. But because there is such a great need out there, assisting these worthy causes should take place every day,” concludes Masekela.