Powells dare to care for charity

WHEN Danielle Powell heard about the iDare2Care initiative organised by ICare and the eThekwini Municipality, daring residents of Durban to spend one night sleeping on the streets just as hundreds of homeless street kids do on a daily basis, she didn’t hesitate. The Sunningdale resident also got her husband, Tyron, involved.

“When I first saw it on Facebook I was just blown away by the concept. I love helping people, and this was an opportunity to see what so many of the homeless population of the city experience on a daily basis.

“I’m sure it will be an eye-opener, and though we are only doing it for 12 hours, it will definitely connect people to the plight of the those living on the streets. Every night I go home to a warm bed, and yet there are so many people who don’t get to experience that,” she said.

“I want to make a difference to their lives and I’m sure there are many other residents who will do the same. This is about realising the plight of the homeless and to raise money for ICare, which is doing fantastic work.”

The couple have also been raising money for the organisation. They will be among more than 600 other participants who will be guided to zones which have been reserved on Dr Pixley Kaseme Street (formerly West Street). Every zone will be clearly marked and have zone leaders overseeing the safety and other needs of participants.

Tyron Powell said he felt it was important for the community to give back, especially with initiatives such as this.

“We often take so much for granted. We sleep in comfy beds, and if we want something to eat we can scrounge around in the fridge. But the reality for street kids and the homeless is very different,” he said.
For more information on the campaign, e-mail idare2care@icare.co.za or call 072 196 9454. Participation is not open to people under the age of 16. Participants who are 16 to 18 will have to have written consent from a parent or legal guardian.