Ten shelters set up for Durban’s homeless

COVID-19 is testing the society and faith of the community like no other global challenge in living memory, says Raymond Perrier, director of the Denis Hurley Centre (DHC).

A team from the DHC along with other NGOs and the Municipality were involved in processing homeless people at the Durban Exhibition Centre intake place on Friday.

They expected 800, however 1 200 arrived on the first day.

Intake assessments and health screenings were done, and the homeless were allocated by gender and state of health and were bussed to 10 shelters around the city, including Moses Mabhida Stadium, People Park West, Durban Jewish Club outer field, Denis Hurley Centre, YMCA, Strollers and Albert Park.

“Despite huge teething problems like late arrival of meals and necessary items such as mattresses, blankets, water, hygiene packs, and toilet paper, there is a workable plan and a process. Not bad for a system set up in three days, and we are proud to say, ahead of every other city in the country,” said Perrier.

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He said as much as there are systems in place to manage the crisis, additional funds were urgently needed.

Perrier said a call was put out for volunteers and shelter site managers and people were generously wanting to help, however he said once the intake process was complete and the emergency shelters were functioning, the organisers would have a better understanding of the personnel needed going forward.

“Everyone’s health and safety are of paramount concern, so be patient, and don’t arrive unannounced to volunteer. We will communicate again once things are clearer. In due course, it would be good to provide shelter residents with extra food, treats, and entertainment. And of course, all of this extensive operation is enormously costly. Cash donations to the DHC are needed now more than ever,” he said.

Continue to email Leanne (leanne@denishurleycentre.org) if you are interested in volunteering in the future, supporting financially, or donating goods.

Banking details are: FNB, account number 6220 4261 002, branch code 22-21-26. Use the reference ‘COVID’ and your name. Send Leanne an email so the they can know who has donated.

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