Phola-The local Podcast MP RISE is having a profound impact in the community of Phola and Witbank.
Established by Michael Mavuso, the Podcast aims to assist the underprivileged members of the local community.
The Podcast identifies individuals in need and organises meetings with relevant stakeholders to tackle social issues such as aiding those without birth certificates, facilitating access to government grants, and providing assistance with other government services that may be challenging to obtain for various reasons.
To date, the Podcast has supported a handful disadvantaged families in the Sakhile section of Phola, in Emalahleni municipality. These families were facing dire circumstances, with children sleeping on the floor without blankets and homes lacking basic necessities like food.
Among the heart-wrenching stories shared were those of children who only received meals at school, went hungry during the night and weekends, and lacked essential identification documents. One Grade 11 learner was also without proper identification.
Food parcels were distributed by the Podcast, alongside the ward councillor Betty Maphosa, Phola SAPS, social workers and compassionate community members who responded positively to the call for assistance.
Mavuso expressed gratitude for the community’s support, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in transforming lives. He emphasized the significance of unity in making a positive impact on society, urging continued support to bring about meaningful change.
Mavuso further emphasized the pressing social challenges faced by the community, underscoring the need for collaborative action to address these issues. He encouraged those in need of assistance to reach out to the Podcast for help, disregarding any negative perceptions that may arise from media exposure. The program involves various stakeholders, including the Local South African Police Service, business leaders, educational institutions, community organizations, and dedicated individuals, all working together to assist families in need. Social workers are actively engaged in the process of supporting these families.
The initiative will extend its coverage to the Emalahleni Sub-Region, responding to numerous requests for aid in a systematic manner. The ultimate goal is to make a lasting impact and foster sustainability within the households identified during each intervention.
