Street Store restores confidence of those in need in Alberton
The fourth Street Store Project saw a number of entities join hands to restore dignity of the many needy and homeless in Alberton at Ligstad on May 20.
The needy and homeless in Alberton had a great deal of old clothing to choose from, such as shirts, pants, shoes, jerseys, jackets and other warm items.
The Street Store Project, under the leadership of the Doxa Deo Meyersdal team, saw scores of people show up to attend the nationwide project for a dignifying experience.
The Street Store concept is a nationwide project driven by the vision to reach out to the less privileged and homeless people in society.
Attendees had a pop-up, free shopping experience focusing on providing winter essentials and were invited to “shop” for clothing and shoes for free.
They were also kept warm with delicious meals before receiving a bible and prayer for hope and restoration. The Street Store was organised with a large number of volunteers assisting customers with their shopping.
Organiser Rene Cloete of Doxa Deo Meyersdal said the Street Store started in Cape Town and from there it went global.
“Doxa Deo partnered with Street Store and other organisations in our community like the Lions, Life on the Streets (LOTS), Ligstad, and Alberton LewenSentrum, so that everybody who wants to participate can participate.
“From February, we started getting clothes in and sorting them out. We want to make the homeless and those that are battling to feel worthy and loved,” she explained.
‘Shoppers’ were able to choose clothes that are still in good condition and in the process, felt worthy as they walked out of the venue.”
She said the idea was to make those in need feel loved and worthy at the end of the day.
Pastor Johann Cloete of Doxa Deo Meyersdal reiterated that every year is just learning from the previous year, logistically.
“The better the flow, the better we’re able to serve the people. We want to make it an experience that’s dignified for them. Last year, we helped about 1 161 people and this year we aim for about 1 300 people, depending on the clothing.”
Pensioner Felicia Yaphi thanked the whole team for their kindness and for keeping them warm this winter.
Special thanks to Alberton Lions, LOTS# Alberton, Fresh Fruits Market, The Gideons, Sole2Sole, Fox and CPS Security, Blue Ribbon Premiums, Ligstad, Alberton Lewensentrum, Doxa Deo, Bethel Church, Revival Church, and a number of other organisations that sent volunteers on the day.
Alberton High School also sent some of their learners to take part in the life-changing community project.
