An army to help the poor
2008-09-18
Lise Beyers
WHILE winter is still showing its strength in Spring, many homeless people have to battle it out daily on the streets of Paarl. But at the local Salvation Army headquarters in Breda Street, Paarl, some relief is offered. Here more than 60 people receive a humble bowl of soup and bread on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “For some of these people, it is the only meal they get during the week,” says Major Naomi Malinga. “Paarl is full of poor people who have to suffer the elements. Unemployment and substance abuse are running riot through the community, and this is often how people become destitute. “We try our utmost to bring relief to many of these people, but as always, funds are limited.” Although the Salvation Army has a facility called The Island of Hope where homeless children, as well as mothers and babies can seek refuge, they cannot accommodate other adults. The centre’s chapel daily brings a certain amount of comfort for the downtrodden, but then they have to face the streets again. A counselling service is also offered here. Currently social work students from Huguenot College in Wellington are doing practical work there, to assist with this. Most of the funds of this establishment are generated from their shop which sells all kinds of second-hand items. “We thank the members of the public who donate these items to us, but we would like to encourage more people to bring us their unwanted goods. “Especially furniture, crockery and clothes are items that sell well. I can guarantee that the sale of these will warm the hearts of many.” For enquiries or donations, contact Major Malinga at 021-872-6032.
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