Homeless shelters get relief, hygiene packages
These shelters not only provide food and shelter, but they also provide skills development training.
Homeless shelters in various parts of Tshwane received relief and hygiene packages when community and social development services MMC Thabisile Vilakazi undertook site visits on Tuesday.
“My objective was to identify which challenges the shelters were facing and to determine where the city could assist,” she said, adding that it was during prior inspections where she realised the shelters were in need of some of the basics.
“During these inspections, it was clear the shelters needed replenishment of blankets, mattresses, cleaning equipment and toiletries for the beneficiaries.
“I immediately made the commitment that we would come back and supply these materials,” she said.
Shelters which Vilakazi visited as she fulfilled the promise of the relief and hygiene packages were the Akasia community hall, Life Changing Ministries, Youth for Survival Women and Children centre, Gate centre and the Lyttelton community hall.
“These shelters not only provide food and shelter, but they also provide skills development training,” she said, adding she was shown a series of impressive carpentry, gardening, upholstery and baking programmes which were running at the different shelters.
“I also met several beneficiaries with inspiring stories of hope,” Vilakazi said.
One such beneficiary was a young woman who was allegedly a victim of gender-based violence.
“She was forced to move to the shelter with her daughter,” Vilakazi said, adding that the young woman was now employed and would soon start with studies towards an LLB degree through the University of South Africa.
“The city of Tshwane will continue in its work to support homeless shelters. We see the life-changing value they bring,” she said.
Vilakazi said they would ensure that they fought off any stigma associated with homelessness and support those who were members of that vulnerable community.
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