Strand-based NPO U-turn is poised to provide a phasing out of homelessness, a journey off the streets on the road to employment, independence and sobriety in the depths of winter.

The organisation has been successfully implementing its programme at various locations across the city over the last 27 years.

It has an occupational-therapy approach in breaking the cycle of unhealthy behavioural patterns.

Bevan Alloys, support centre manager of the U-turn branch in Strand, said there are three phases that form the focus of the programme.

Phase 1 is the “Change Readiness” programme, which establishes a foundation for recovery. Clients are given access to needs-based services such as ablution services, which ensure proper hygiene as a way of instilling dignity.

“We provide clothing to rebuild self-confidence and nutritious meals that contribute to overall health and well-being,” Alloys said.

“Clients participate in daily social work and therapeutic sessions to break the cycle of homelessness through our change groups by building motivation for change.”

They can also participate in a voucher-earnings concept in which they can rebuild confidence by earning vouchers to purchase clothing at the U-turn voucher shop weekly.

Phase 2 is a “Rehab Support” programme, where clients who portray commitment to change readiness will progress.

Here they receive supportive accommodation and rehab support to assist them on their sobriety journey.

“Clients will have access to individual and case management, with case workers and managers to assist with the journey out of homelessness at a U-turn Centre,” Alloys pointed out.

Phase 3 is a “Work Readiness” programme. Clients who complete the rehab-support programme are referred to work readiness to walk the journey to employment and independence.

How can you help?

Alloys advised the community to purchase Mi-change vouchers, which can be redeemed across the city at U-turn Homeless Support Centres. This provides essential basic needs such as a meal, shower, clothing or a bed in a safe space, where available.

In Strand these can be purchased at HeBrews Coffee Shop at 28 Michau Street in Strand.

“There are also volunteer opportunities by giving time towards our programme by equipping the homeless with your skill or assisting with light duties daily,” said Alloys.

He added that monetary donations will help the organisation expand its services within the Helderberg.

Pre-loved clothing donations can also be made and would help the homeless keep warm this winter, while donating food will help U-turn feed clients.

• For more information or to get involved, contact the Strand office, located at Shop 16 in Michau Street, (Opposite 80’s Bar) on 021 674 0400, or send an email to bevan.alloys@homeless.org.za.