Parkview’s St Francis Anglican Church and Bokamoso Foundation urge residents to help the homeless this winter
With a rise in homelessness, residents are being asked to donate clothes, toiletries, and compassion.
With Johannesburg’s winter setting in, St Francis Anglican Church and the Bokamoso Foundation have launched an urgent call for donations to support the city’s homeless population. The campaign, which includes a blanket and clothing drive, is appealing to Parkview residents for essential winter items, particularly men’s clothing, shoes, toiletries, and warm blankets.
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The Bokamoso Foundation, a registered non-profit organisation led by chairperson Refilwe Modise, is spearheading the initiative. Working in partnership with St Francis Anglican Church’s youth and social concern Pastor Fabian Oliver, the foundation provides critical outreach and support services to homeless individuals in Region B.
Modise says the need has reached alarming levels. “We’re seeing a consistent rise in the number of people living on the streets. Many young men, aged between 18 and 65, who’ve come to Johannesburg in search of work, but ended up with nothing.”
Around 95% of those assisted by the programme are male. Many arrive without identity documents, stable shelter, or any support system. The lack of basic items, such as clean clothing and shoes, is a constant challenge, particularly in winter.
The foundation operates a drop-in centre at the church, offering hot meals, clothing, hygiene services, and job readiness support. In addition to lunch and access to showers twice a week, the centre offers referrals to shelters, rehabilitation centres, and skills development programmes. Several of the beneficiaries hold matric certificates, or have completed partial university studies, but are unable to find work due to financial constraints or lack of documentation.
Oliver emphasised the importance of collaboration between the church, community, and organisations like Bokamoso. “Our mission is not only spiritual; it’s practical. Through partnerships like this one, we can make a real, tangible difference.”
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The church and foundation currently assist over 100 individuals weekly, with support also coming from nearby organisations in Parkhurst and Rosebank. However, the resources often fall short of the growing need.
Modise is calling on residents, businesses, and local stakeholders to support the winter campaign. In addition to clothing and blankets, financial contributions are needed to assist with ID replacements, transport costs for family reunification, and expanding training opportunities.
She also invites local residents’ associations and ward councillors to partner more actively with the foundation to explore long-term solutions. “We can’t solve everything overnight, but with commitment, we can reduce the suffering and help rebuild lives: One person at a time.”
Winter drive donations needed:
• Warm blankets,
• Men’s clothing (especially winter items),
• Men’s shoes (various sizes),
• Toiletries (soap, toothpaste, sanitary items), and
• Financial support for ID replacements, transport, and skills training.
Donations may be dropped off at the church during the week. For more information, or to get involved, contact the church office or Bokamoso Foundation.
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