Talk of the Towns: Help the homeless – responsibly
Should you wish to help, rather recommend a homeless shelter or a charitable organisation to them.
VAGRANTS, specifically in Scottburgh and surrounding areas are always a hot topic for debate.
As the unemployment rate increases, more and more people are finding it difficult to make ends meet and often have to find other ways of earning an income.
One of these ways is by begging – either for work, money or food.
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There are a number of vagrants who beg at the traffic lights and outside shops around town.
I personally feel as though anyone could end up in that position at any given time, so why belittle them?
I’ve seen people swearing at them, and one man even threatened to run them over!
Why treat them this way when you have no idea what hardships they suffered to bring them to this place in their lives.
I believe that by showing these people a bit of kindness, whether it’s with food, clothing or loose change, you could perhaps play a part in helping them get their lives back on track.
There are people who think twice about giving money to vagrants as they assume the money will be wasted on drugs or alcohol.
This can of course happen, but it is usually evident if there is a substance abuse problem.
However, when it comes to the vagrants in the Scottburgh CBD, especially those posing as car guards, it is highly recommended that you do not give them money because they WILL use this for drugs.
This advice has been given by the police, as these vagrants have been seen countless times purchasing drugs or alcohol with the money they’ve been given.
If you choose to ignore this, you’re basically supporting their habit and sending a message to them saying that’s it’s okay to harass people for money.
Bottom line, should you wish to help, rather recommend a homeless shelter or a charitable organisation to them. It is always best to contact a professional.
Neill Fick is willing to help vagrants in the area better their lives, and can be contacted at 063-7894926 if you would like to get involved.
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