THANK YOU NEWCASTLE: Hidden society no longer ignored

“I still dream that one day I will be something.”

Newcastle’s homeless community have hopes and dreams like everyone else, but their aspirations are a far cry from our often selfish desires.

They dream of a world where they do not have to worry about hypothermia claiming their lives; a world where warms beds wait for them at night.

They dream of a world where regular meals do not come from scrounging, as they fall asleep with hunger gnawing at their empty bellies.

But while living under the bridge in Hardwick Street, out of sight from passersby, these men and women no longer live in society’s shadows – and thanks to the Newcastle community, they now have names and can proudly say that they no longer have to walk alone.

Homeless as they might be, their story did not go unheeded.

After their plight was published, Newcastillians requested they be able to help the small society. Drop off points were made available on Tuesday, June 9, at Newcastle Mall, Pick n Pay at Scott Street Mall, Checkers at Amajuba Mall and at the Newcastle Advertiser offices.

Faizel and Razia Cassim from Northern-Natal Motorsport also joined the initiative to help the homeless, who could only dream of have running water made available to them.

Within three days, more than ten bags of clothes were donated, as well as shoes and tin food which will surely be a start towards helping the men keep the intolerable winter chills at bay, while keeping their tummy’s filled.

On Friday morning, the Newcastle Advertiser and Newcastle Sun dropped of the items, and their shocked faces turned to ones of gratitude and smiles. For the next few days, they will be able to survive.

“Thank you so much; may God bless you,” whispered Bongani, one of the homeless men who has benefited from the generous donations.

As the small group eagerly tried on the warm clothing, we have to ask ourselves, how fortunate are we? Every night we go home to our families, friends, warm beds and hot meals, yet we still find reasons to complain.

While we moan about our good fortunes, there are the homeless who are overjoyed with the knowledge they have a tin of food to eat tonight.

A big thanks goes to Beulah Rajkumar from Newcastle Mall, Paul du Plessis from Pick n Pay Scott Street Mall, and Vincent Nkosi at Checkers Amajuba Mall for all their support and assistance.

A further thanks goes to the community members who contributed to making the initiative a success and proving that humanity, compassion and love is still alive.

The drop off points will remain until the end of the weekend and Newcastillians are encouraged to help those in this time of need.

“If you want others to be happy, show compassion. If you want to be happy, show compassion,” said the Dalai Lama.