GBVF organisations spread Christmas cheer to Kimberley’s homeless

WOMEN Waging War Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), Abuse, Poverty and Inequality shared the Christmas spirit with the less fortunate when they hosted a party and pop-up charity clothing shop this week.

Members of the public were invited to bring donations, refreshments, clothing and toiletries, which were distributed to those in need during the event on December 21.

Women Waging War convener Milly Wolfe highlighted alarming statistics, noting that more than 120 youths had been living on the streets for as long as 30 years.

“Young people become elderly while living on the streets. Inequality, poverty and hunger are a crisis. Children must be taught to care for the less fortunate,” she said.

Abahambe National Civic Movement convener Alodia Jacobs added that many children were living in poverty and under harsh conditions.

“We need to find solutions and take care of street children, as well as keep the city clean and minimise lawlessness,” she said.

Herbert Miller from the Justice4All project reminded the public that the festive season was also a time to assist those who were struggling.

“People living on the streets are still human beings who deserve a second chance. We need to build a society that is caring and responsible. We call on civil society and government to open a shelter for the homeless. It was heartbreaking to hear someone who has been surviving on the streets say it was the first time in three years that he had eaten a decent, warm meal,” he said.

Miller extended his appreciation to everyone who had donated towards the event.

Fourteen-year-old Phutanang resident Irisang Domingo said she donated food parcels, clothing and sanitary products for young girls as her contribution to the initiative.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to share a Christmas meal and donate clothes so that those who do not have these resources could feel the love we have for them,” she said.