Yesterday, we celebrated a very meaningful Mandela Day in collaboration with the South African Embassy in Denmark and the Mother Teresa-affiliated Charity Mission in Copenhagen. Since the charity mission is closed on Thursday, July 18, the official Mandela Day, we held the event a day earlier, on Wednesday, July 17.
Our team from CB included six participants: Jessica (Ireland), Luka (Georgia), Margo (Egypt), Oussama (Palestine), Tanya (India), and Garba (Global). We arrived at the mission before noon, ready to work. Some staff members from the South African Embassy were already present, with others, including Ambassador Ms. Magubane, joining later. In total, seven individuals from the embassy actively participated. The treat included fresh fruits, soft drinks, and a Mandela birthday cake.
We prepared and served fresh food to about 40-50 homeless citizens from various national backgrounds. Observing the group, it’s evident that Copenhagen is becoming increasingly diverse, even among its most vulnerable populations. The majority were men aged 25-50, struggling with challenges such as mental health issues, alcohol and drug misuse, poverty, and other health problems.
These individuals represent a small fraction of the estimated 5,000 homeless people living on the streets of Denmark’s big cities. Compared to many other countries, Denmark’s situation for the homeless is better, with numerous shelters providing free food and beds for the night.
While Mandela dedicated 60 years of his life to volunteering (excluding the 27 years he spent behind bars), we are proud to have spent about six hours serving those who need it most.
A billion thanks to the South African Embassy and the Crossing Borders team for making Mandela Day in Copenhagen so meaningful.