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Harm reduction centre restores dignity to vulnerable communities

Bellhaven Harm Reduction Centre celebrated Heritage Day by hosting a wellness event yesterday. The day saw 80 clients from vulnerable communities catered for with a wide range of services.

YESTERDAY the Bellhaven Harm Reduction Centre extended its community programme to mark Heritage Day’s culture focus with care.

Nina Manzi Showers ensured that vulnerable individuals were able to enjoy the dignity of a fresh shower and a wide range of additional services.

Clients taking advantage of scanning by health professionals. Photo: Supplied

The spokesperson of Bellhaven, Londeka Mgwaba, shared, “The energy throughout the day was relaxed and joyful, with many clients arriving dressed proudly in their traditional heritage attire. The TB X-ray programme screened attendees for tuberculosis, while the DUT Somatology Department provided light pampering and the DUT Homoeopathy Department offered medical consultations tailored to client needs. Free haircuts were also available, adding to the sense of personal renewal and care.

Also read: Mobile sanitation units restore dignity of homeless patrons

“The highlight was the visit from Nirupa Misra, Head Pharmacist at King Dinizulu Hospital, who engaged clients as part of Pharmacy Month, educating them about the role of pharmacists and the services available to them.”
Khumalo added, “Community partners further enriched the celebration. Divine Health Forum provided a nutritious meal for all participants, while Viva con Agua distributed wellness packs filled with essential sanitary items. These thoughtful contributions reinforced the spirit of care and solidarity that defines the Wellness Days.

Healthy living was the order of the day, as experts shared tips on staying healthy. Photo: Supplied

“Participants expressed their delight and gratitude, with one client describing the event as ‘a glimmer of home’. He praised the Bellhaven staff for their friendliness and continued support.

“It was a reminder that wellness is not only about health, but also about dignity, identity, and belonging. Looking ahead, the Wellness Days promises to grow from strength to strength, continuing to embody what Bellhaven stands for: care with dignity, community with respect, and wellness that goes deeper than health alone,” Khumalo concluded.

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Wendy Sithole

Wendy Sithole is currently a community media journalist, attached to Berea Mail (Durban). She first joined Caxton Newspapers in 2004. After a newsroom hiatus she rejoined Caxton in 2024. She is responsible for reporting through writing and photography, for both print copy and digital platforms. She studied Journalism and Social Sciences. Apart from reporting, Wendy possesses vast knowledge in the spheres Communication, of Public Relations and Events publicity.

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