Johannesburg – The Public Servants Association (PSA) will commemorate Mandela Day on Tuesday, (18 July 2023), by reaching out to the unions members employed as community health workers across the country.
The PSA has honoured Mandela Day since its inception, with various outreach programmes.
In the spirit of Mandela Day 2023, the PSA said it will focus its efforts to alleviate some of the challenges faced by community health workers, who render selfless services to disadvantaged communities.
The PSA said, in collaboration with Bramley Cosmetics and Metropolitan, they will roll out a nationwide initiative by donating 3 500 backpacks filled with essential items such as a power bank, clipboard, pen and Bramley tissue oils to community health workers.
These workers perform a wide range of vital healthcare roles in communities.
The PSA, however, said it was extremely concerned that the essential role of this group of workers was not valued, recognised, and addressed.
“Community health workers are utilised by the government but are denied recognition as employees by means of their permanent absorption and related benefits,” the union said.
The PSA greatly values the work of community health workers and recognises their sacrifices and circumstances.
The union said community health workers are paid only a stipend for their services, instead of the substantive salary and benefits expected in a contract of employment.
In this regard, the PSA said it offers community health workers discounted union membership fees reduced by as much as 50%.
These members also enjoy all PSA fringe benefits, including free funeral assistance and free membership of PSAClub, with discounts on a range of goods and services.
The PSA expressed “sincere appreciation” to the countrys community health workers who selfless services embody the spirit of Mandela Day every day.
