Homeless shelter now brings hope to many men
A need to help and assist homeless men has been identified by the CMR of Burgersfort
STEELPOORT- A homeless shelter was launched in Longtill Thusong Centre, identifying 15 individuals in need of a safe place to turn to at night.
Sharon Makofane, a social worker and representative of the Christelike Maatskaplike Raad (CMR) in Burgersfort, oversaw this first-of-its-kind initiative in this area.
Selecting individuals in need was not an easy task for Makofane and co-workers, including the SAPS and Limpopo Health Department. Shortly after starting the election process, they learned that not all men that look homeless are indeed homeless.
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They soon discovered that to find the right people for the shelter, they would have to go out at night. They then identified men who were brought to the shelter.
Substance abuse and addiction is a real concern. The numbers of men in the shelter vary from day to day as some of them struggle to stay clean and sober. Makofane said that it is important to know that this is a shelter, not a rehabilitation facility.
The men undergo health checks every day and are provided clean sleeping quarters and warm meals. This shelter is dependant on donations from the public. So far, Makofane said the community was beyond amazing helping out and donating food and clothes. These men still need the community’s help.
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Any donations are welcome. Makofane stated that fresh fruit and vegetables are more than welcome, and donations are not limited tot non-perishable items.
