Homelessness: Let us not condemn or criticise

PAST ANNETTE MYERS, welfare director, Christian Family Church, Johannesburg, writes:

The article featured last week by Tumelo Tshetlo greatly touched my heart as I was in the process of writing the following letter to Kempton Express. I now have confirmation to go ahead.

I am deeply saddened and shocked by the degeneration of this once very thriving, busy and popular city. Everywhere one goes in the CBD there is not only tons of litter, but an air of disinterest in the surroundings and an acceptance of the disarray.

Also read:

• Lack of proper shelters contributes to homeless people

• Soup project launched for Long Street children

But above all, the most horrendous fact is the number of homeless and helpless, men, women and children of all ages and races to whom the streets have now become home.

Irrespective of the reasons for them being in that condition, it is my belief that we, as a community, should be proactive in our efforts to uplift, encourage and assist these street dwellers wherever possible. Many are there for reasons beyond their control, many are there by choice because there is no alternative, whatever their reasons – they need help, not condemnation; compassion not accusation.

If our churches, councillors, mayors, social workers and those with caring hearts collectively unite, we could go much further in reducing the numbers of homeless through education, rehabilitation, family counselling and prayer.

Christian Family Church Welfare and many other organisations send teams of volunteers into the streets to bring food, clothing and blankets, but we are well aware that this is just placing a temporary plaster in place, where surgery is often needed.

There is so much expertise around and in a multitude of council there is much wisdom.

There may not be many jobs available, but we can implement a plan whereby work is done in exchange for food and clothing, dustbins can be provided so trash doesn’t have to lie on the streets, empty buildings could be utilised for temporary shelters, the able-bodied can be given painting or gardening assignments. These are just a few examples of what can be done. True, we cannot help everyone, but we can help some!

This is an appeal for like-minded people, such as Lilly Franks from MES and Clr Jaco Terblanche to come together to help us help our community thrive and prosper, to alleviate hopelessness and to show true love to one another.

Let us not condemn, criticise and complain, but let us be proactive in finding a solution.