World Homeless Day marked in Kempton Park
Department of Social Development recently World Homeless in Kempton Park with the support of Manger Car Centre and MES Shelter.
In honour of World Homeless Day observed globally, the Gauteng Department of Social Development recently partnered with Manger Care Centre and MES Shelter to raise awareness and provide support to those experiencing homelessness in Kempton Park.
This annual event highlights the needs of people facing homelessness and promotes the efforts made by the government and its partners to ease their hardships.
Led by law enforcement, the Department and its partners visited key hotspots where homeless individuals are known to reside.
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During the outreach on Kempton Road, social work supervisor Moleko Shivambu engaged with homeless residents and shared plans to introduce a mobile wash bus service to these areas.
The mobile wash bus, a project by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, will provide hot showers and toilet facilities to the homeless in designated locations.
“We joined our partners in Kempton Park to bring services to the homeless as part of World Homeless Day,” Shivambu said.
“We know that some not only need shelter but are also battling substance use. We wanted to offer support and not judgement.
“The information we provide is meant to help the homeless make choices that can improve their lives.”
Social work manager Adele de Bruin commended the department’s progress with various programmes offered by shelters in the Eastern Corridor, emphasising the importance of making these services accessible.
“It is crucial that people know about the services provided by Manger Care Centre and MES Shelter. Integration is key to reducing the number of people living on the streets,” said De Bruin.
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One of the homeless individuals appealed to the department for assistance in obtaining an identity document, which had been lost during relocation.
She explained, “We have tried to get help from Home Affairs but were unsuccessful. It would be a great help if the department could assist.”
The outreach event was hoped to be a meaningful step towards addressing homelessness in Gauteng and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to improving lives through accessible, compassionate support.
