UITENHAGE - THE PLIGHT OF THE HOMELESS IN A WORLD RAVAGED BY A GROWING COVID-19 THREAT

There's nothing more awakening than being submerged into the reality of a situation and when that situation is the COVID-19 pandemic then that's definitely a hard-hittting slap in the face. This is the feeling you get as you walk in Uitenhage Town Hall where it has become a shelter for about 70 homeless people from the area.

"We currently have a 20 month old infant, 4 boys under the age of 18, 9 women and 44 men. ON Saturday we established this shelter after MPL Marshall Van Buchenroode contacted the MEC in Bhisho," said Nelson Mandela Bay Councillor, Shaun Soyes.

"When we arrived here on Saturday, police and Metro Security Services were already bring homeless people to us. The Metro has procured two meals for these people since last week Sunday unitl Wednesday and the provincial social department have procured three meals a day for them until the end of the lockdown.

"Everybody has matresses, Public Health Department came in and demarcated the area for the mattresses and the place has been fumigated twice already and the people in the shelter are kept hygienically clean and well equipped against this COVID-19.

"We have alot of donors that have brought in clothing, food, soup and whatever we required as essential needs for these people. People in the shelter are very happy because on Monday morning they could wash, due to the CPF and SAPS Uitenhage who sponsored them with toothbrushes, wash cloths, toothpaste and soap. We could also give them new and clean clothing to wear.

"We make sure those who don't wash are washed. Currently we do not have any problems with these people, they are well behaved, disciplined and they are keeping their integrity in tact. As of now I want to thank the sponsors who have helped thus far but we are sitting with a full 16 days ahead of us and my plea is for all of them to come forward with more of these generous gestures.

"Each and every thing that you think that would improve the life of these homeless people, we would kindly appreciate it and we would make sure that the people receive it. Let's unite together South Africa and let's stay at home," concluded Soyes.

The fact of the matter is that these people need the help of everyone and anyone who is able to assist should in the spirit of Ubuntu. The world is facing dire consequences if we cannot contain this pandemic but it cannot hurt to show a little humanity during this trying time.

Anyone wishing to make a donation may do so at the Uitenhage Town Hall.

Pictures & story via - BAYBULLETIN