A beneficiary who once queued for food assistance at Thy Kingdom Care Centre in Evaton is now serving her community as a caregiver, emphasizing the positive impact of the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
The inspiring story emerged during a monitoring and evaluation visit conducted by the Department’s HIV and AIDS Unit at Thy Kingdom Care Centre, a department-funded Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) in the Southern Region.
The visit formed part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to assess compliance, monitor programme implementation, and strengthen the capacity of funded organisations to deliver quality services to vulnerable communities.
As the lead department in the EPWP Social Sector Cluster, the Gauteng Department of Social Development creates work opportunities through various social programmes, including learnerships for Care Workers in Child and Youth Care Centres, Social Auxiliary Workers, and Community Home-Based Care practitioners.
According to Kokobetsa Ramokgola from GDSD, the purpose of the visit was to ensure compliance while showcasing the impact of EPWP programmes within communities.
“The programme is designed to equip participants with training, skills development, and practical work experience that will enhance their future employability. It also provides unemployed individuals with a stipend for services rendered,” said Ramokgola.
He added that the Department plays a critical role in monitoring and evaluation, facilitating sector discussions on quarterly performance, supporting skills development and capacity building, and reporting job creation through the EPWP system.
One of the programme beneficiaries, Nhlanhla Dlomo, shared her journey from receiving support at the centre as a child to becoming a caregiver who now assists others.
“I have witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by vulnerable people because I was once a beneficiary myself. Today, I am able to give back to the community by helping others and encouraging young people to make use of the services available to them,” said Dlomo.
She said many young people visit the centre for homework assistance and afternoon snacks, adding that the organisation continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth in the community.
“We are proud to have Thy Kingdom Care Centre in our community because it brings hope, support and opportunities to young people,” she said.
The Project Manager of Thy Kingdom Care Centre said the organisation provides a range of services, including HIV and AIDS awareness through home visits, school outreach programmes and community engagements.
The centre also offers guidance and support on social issues, assists children in conflict with the law, advocates against violence towards women and children, facilitates support groups for people living with HIV and AIDS as well as survivors of abuse, and promotes substance abuse prevention among orphans and vulnerable children.
The visit highlighted the important role played by community-based organisations in supporting vulnerable groups and demonstrated how government-funded programmes continue to create opportunities, build skills and transform lives across Gauteng.