Disabled man from eMbalenhle needs shelter

Bongani Matsimbe’s (27) legs were amputated after he was diagnosed with diabetes last year. Since then, he has lost everything and is now homeless.

Matsimbe sleeps in the Ext 17 taxi rank in eMbalenhle. He has no ID, so he cannot claim a disability grant.

Matsimbe told the Ridge Times he survives on food handouts from the community passing by the taxi rank.

“Some people are helping me get my ID from the Department of Home Affairs. While waiting for the process, I would appreciate it if someone could help me with a shelter to sleep in. My life is difficult because I have to live and sleep at the taxi rank,” said Matsimbe.

Matsimbe has three children living with their mothers because he can’t care for them anymore. He said after his legs were amputated at the Evander Hospital last year, he slept on a hospital bench for months because he had nowhere to go.

He decided to return to eMbalenhle, where he also slept on benches at the eMbalenhle Police Station.

“It is now proven that we need a centre for the disabled and homeless people in eMbalenhle. I know I am not the only one faced with such difficulties to survive. There are more people like me out there who also need shelter. I believe that if I can get my IDt, my life would be better,” said Matsimbe.

Matsimbe is a member of the Phakamani Care for All Disability organisation that looks for shelter for people with disabilities who are victims of abuse. Formed last year, the organisation aims to care for the needs of people with various disabilities.

Monky Lephoto, one of the organisation leaders, said they are helping Matsimbe get his ID. Then, he could have a residential stand to apply for an RDP house.

“We are trying to find Matsimbe’s family members who could help him get his ID. At least we found some,” said Lephoto.

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