- The Loaves and Fishes shelter in Observatory, supporting destitute individuals struggling with addiction, is appealing for donations to refurbish its facility.
- The shelter provides life skills coaching, addiction recovery, and family reunification services.
- Financial and structural support is urgently needed to continue its vital work.
The Loaves and Fishes shelter has been offering an essential service to people living on the street for more than two decades. Now the Observatory-based organisation needs a much-needed refurbishment.
The facility is a Christian second-phase shelter and renewal centre for destitute men and women between the ages of 25 and 63 struggling with addictions. It can accommodate up to 40 clients.
The facility provides several remedial initiatives that include identifying and addressing the root causes of problems, treating common issues like drug and alcohol addiction, coaching in life skills and job skills. It also offers therapeutic workshops and refers clients for specialist support.
The administration manager for the organisation Garth George said that like all organisations relying on donations, they are feeling the economic pinch of the high cost of living.
Their immediate priority is to get the facility refurbished, he said.
“The building needs to be painted, there are cracks on the walls. The area is waterlogged and we are dealing with dampness,” added George, adding that all donations are welcomed.
People off the streets
“If people can assist us financially that will be appreciated. If there is a company that can come on board and assist us with the structure that would be most welcomed.”
George explained that they aim to get people off the streets. “We want to get them back with their families. There is a need for more organisations like this because there are so many people, we can only accommodate 40 people at a time.”
He said they also assist people coming to them for assistance.
“People living on the street come to us and we try and assist by giving them from the extra food or extra donations.”
Hilary Michaels, social worker, said their purpose is to help clients reintegrate into society. They also focus on family reunification.
“We work hard on their independence. We help them apply for social housing. We also contact their families so that those relationships can be rebuilt.”
Mario Beukes, a client, said his life changed for the better since he was recommended to the shelter a year ago.
“Being here keeps my mind occupied away from temptations. At the start, it was difficult to adapt. But as time went by I have adapted and I am still here and I am not looking back.”
To donate call 021 448 5900.
