Ward 32 Clr Marius de Vos is trying to find alternative accommodation for the vagrants at the Boksbrg Post Office in Leeuwpoort Street.
It seems that vagrants are still occupying the post office despite several attempts from the EMPD to remove and to relocate them.
The Advertiser regularly reports on vagrants in Boksburg.
“Scores of homeless people are flocking to town from townships adjacent to the CBD. My interaction with some of them confirmed that the current economic climate, which resulted in a severe lack of job opportunities, is driving people to look for food and shelter in town.
“Some of them served time in jail for heinous crimes and couldn’t reunite with their families,” said Marius.
“Public open spaces, public buildings such as the post office and the hardware store on Market Street have become permanent shelter to these people.
“Both government and local municipality have no policy or relief measures in place to protect these people against harsh weather conditions, be it winter or summer.
“Many of them die due to extreme weather conditions especially in winter. As a ward councillor, I’m pleading with non-governmental organisations, churches, businesses and the government to take hands in crafting plans to mitigate the harsh conditions these poor people are enduring on the streets around the CBD.”
The vagrants at the post office expressed that they are living at the premises as a last resort.
“I’ve been living here for about three years now as I have nowhere else to go after I was released from prison. My life just fell apart. My wife left me and I have no family,” said Kevin Dickson.
“People like to point fingers at us, but they have no idea what we’re going through. It’s life-threatening for us to live in the streets.
“We’re not here to hurt or steal from anyone; we’re only looking for a shelter. In fact, we are trying to keep the community safe by working with the police and watching cars. We’re even chasing the criminals away.
“We’re also trying to keep the premises clean, but it’s difficult as other people are expecting us to clean up their mess.”
Markham Goelhoër, another vagrant who seeks shelter at the post office, added that they are doing everything they in order to make money.
“It’s difficult to find a job these days and we are willing to do anything. We will even be street-sweepers. Anything will help,” said Markham.
Anybody who is willing to give these people alternative accommodation or help in any way may contact Marius on marius40devos or on 081 524 6950.
