Coordinated effort in town to help the homeless

After the Standerton Advertiser reported on the plight of the homeless in Standerton and a businessman’s charitable effort, Kuyenzeka Kunkulunkulu contacted him and a way forward was discussed on Wednesday, 22 July.

This non-profit organisation with the apt name of ‘through God it is possible’ was represented by its founder, Ms Dumisile Hlatswayo and the res of the committee under chairmanship of Past Andrew Matsi of the Replica Church in town.

The number of needy people, who frequents the premises of the businessman every afternoon for a cup of coffee and some biscuits, differs from those who Kuyenzeka Kunkulunkula used to fed, before lockdown, at the taxi rank.

Between 25 to 30 homeless or unemployed in town gather for coffee and the figures, for those at the taxi rank, were more than 70.

Their organiser, Mr Munzi Nzimande, said the soup was prepared at the home of Ms Hlatswayo in Azalea, whose son had an addiction problem.

The two groups discussed the possibility of coordinating efforts after the businessman said he is trying to get the community involved.

“We are striving towards a drug-free community,” was the message.

“Not many people can sympathise with drug users,” was one of the comments.

Ms Goitsemang Maseko, deputy founder, and a former drug-addict was also present at the meeting, with her attendance showing a person whom drug-addicts can relate to in discussions about substance abuse.

The NPO has no government funding and has objectives such as home-based visits, food, rehabilitation, re-uniting with families and skills development.

The discussions bore fruit and it was agreed that a coordinated database will be established.

Kuyenzeka Kunkulunkulu also attended the 5pm-session in town on Wednesday, 22 July to get an idea of the work done.

Anyone wishing to get involved, can call Past Matsi at 079 432 7255 or Mr Nzimande at 060 700 6446.

Also read: Sakeman op Standerton leef sy beginsels uit