Rigby Heenan – Sustainable economic growth would go a long way to alleviating poverty and providing shelter to the homeless. Encourage the local economy, support home industries and focus on tourism to bring in the numbers.

Ruvz Dàbrát Rajdew – There is not much help especially for the homeless and those with disabilities. There’s a handful of residents that feed and clothe those with mental disabilities that are left wandering the streets, but even if they are given blankets they are stolen. Elderly people that are homeless, they can help get them into an old age home. A lot homeless due to drugs, they can offer them help and transport to Kwasizabantu. We need more rehabs.

Privi Makhan – There are a number of local NPOs and NGOs that are doing great work to curb the societal issues that come with homelessness. The reality though, is that local government need to create a more conducive environment for business to thrive, this will play a significant role in curbing the unemployment plague that is holding our communities back.

Zinge Afrika – People are doing their part (in fact people here are going out of their way to assist) but support from local government will go a long way.

Emmanuel Gcabashe – In my opinion, South Africans are not doing enough to help others. The reason is some people have a bad tendency of robbing people, so no one trusts anybody that is homeless and unemployed. The private sector is trying to help the unemployed, but the government is failing dismally.

Editor Lesley Naudé – One of the most common questions we get asked is whether to support the beggars at the traffic lights. If you are going to give anything, food is the best option. However, there are NGOs in the surrounding communities that provide food to the homeless. Our own Orphan Fund supports many of these charities and soup kitchens. Supporting begging enables a lifestyle on the street where people are dependent on handouts. But always deal with the individual in front of you, look people in the eye and help where you feel convicted to.

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