Life in the streets during lockdown
Those in the streets said lockdown is hitting them hard as they are not spared its ramifications.
The impact of the lockdown is felt by many nationwide, but those who rely on being in the streets to make a living are truly suffering.
Benedick Ambraal, 39, and his friend Gerald April, 29, of Toekomsrus said the news that the lockdown was being extended meant that life would not be getting back to normal any time soon.
From living on R90 to R150 a day, they now have to survive on a mere R20. They plead to anyone who is willing to spare small change to help feed their families.
Ambraal said he used to earn a living as a car guard and doing other odd jobs. Now he is unable to make a living and relies solely on begging, although their movements have been curtailed, which makes life very tough for them.
“Sometimes we go to bed without food because even if you can scrap for anything, where would you even start?” the visibly exhausted man asked.
Ambraal said his younger sister is the only one in the household who is employed. “She is a cleaner, but even so, we are still struggling to feed the entire family.”
April said he used to survive by doing recycling. He too faces the challenge of supporting his two children. He added that although he is grateful for people’s random acts of kindness, it is not enough.
“Some are willing to help, and even strangers donate bread. We really appreciate it. We can just keep on fighting, as for us who are hustling in the streets life is hard,” April said.
