Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Cops, Mamma Delft ensure pupils write exams on full stomach
TWO police officers, with a woman fondly dubbed Mamma Delft, have done it again, serving breakfast to more than 10 matric pupils every morning ahead of their exams by digging into their own pockets.
Not only are the children fed a healthy breakfast, they are also motivated by speakers who attend the sessions every morning.
Police officer Captain John Bartlett and his colleague, Sergeant Siyabonga Dyanti, are not averse to getting their hands dirty by sweeping the garage floors and garden where Wilhemina Heynes feeds the children.
Not only do the officers help with chores, they also motivate the children by encouraging them about their life and career choices and behaviour.
The breakfasts are Heynes's brainchild which she began six years ago.
Heynes is a mother of three, and has five grandchildren and works for the Masimthembe HIV/Aids Enrichment Centre in The Hague, Delft.
She uses her money and also receive financial assistance from the two police officers, friends and neighbours, including the ward councillor, Michelle Adonis.
The pupils who attend Perseverance High, Delft Technical High and Leiden High are treated like royalty with a red carpet and decor.
Heynes prepares porridge, eggs and savoury platters for the children who come from underprivileged families.
Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk said their officers went far beyond the call of duty. They had touched the lives of the pupils, leading them to make wise decisions for the future, he said.
“During last year, one learner was listening attentively, and earlier this year, she could apply to join the police through their dedicated engagement with the learners. Several of the matriculants were assisted by them in applying for further studies and even job creation at various institutions. It is indeed a privilege to see the youth growing positively and making the best of their future,” Van Wyk said.
“Members of the community and organisations are encouraged to assist
Aunty Mina, or Mamma Delft, as she is affectionately known.”
Heynes said the children's well-being and education are what motivated her.
“I make sure that the tables are decorated and that there is beautiful crockery and table cloths,” she said.
“My passion is working with children, and it is important to see to their needs because many come from homes which are underprivileged, and they do not have a meal before they can write their exams.
“You will never realise what a meal does, like breakfast in the morning, before they write their exams. It has an impact on the outcome of their work.
“I am grateful to everyone who donates to this cause, like my neighbours and my friends.”
Carol Philander, who has been a motivational speaker at the breakfasts, said she encouraged children to chase after their dreams and to not give up.
“I have been with Mina for the past three years, Mamma Delft, and this was one of my dreams when I retired. I wanted to work with children in our community, and I wanted to encourage them and to believe in themselves and not to give up with the situations they find themselves in, like abuse or peer pressure,” said Philander.
“This encourages them, even with the word of God, to know that there is someone that loves them unconditionally.
“I have told them not to give up on their dreams and to dream for themselves, not their parents or someone else.”