U-turn Homeless Ministries hosted its World Homeless Day Run at Rondebosch Common on Saturday, 10 October 2026. More than 400 supporters, homeless clients, and staff took part. The 5 km run and walk put homelessness firmly in the public spotlight.

What happened at the World Homeless Day Run in Cape Town?

The event joined forces with the weekly Rondebosch Common parkrun. This is a free, community 5 km event held every Saturday at 08:00. U-turn’s homeless clients, staff, and members of the public ran the same flat, two-lap tarmac course. The route wraps around the Common with views of Devil’s Peak.

U-turn’s Instagram account reported “over 400 supporters” at the event. The post honoured clients who participated.

Which U-turn service centres took part?

Clients from U-turn’s three Cape Town Homeless Service Centres took part. These are Claremont (27 Stegman Road) and Wynberg (72 Church Street). The third is The Hope Exchange (14A Roeland Street, District Six).

The Hope Exchange has served Cape Town’s homeless community for over four decades. It officially joined operations with U-turn in November 2024. This strengthened the organisation’s reach into the city centre.

How does U-turn help people off the streets?

These service centres are at the frontline of U-turn’s work. They provide meals, clothing, showers, and safe spaces. Here, people experiencing homelessness can begin their journey off the streets.

From there, clients can enter U-turn’s phased rehabilitation programme. It moves from basic-needs support through therapy and addiction recovery. Then comes work-readiness training, and ultimately sustainable employment.

What did participants receive at the run?

As a special gesture, every participating client received a pair of running shoes and socks. The gift aimed to encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle.

U-turn staff also joined the run. Others formed cheer squads along the route. They motivated participants and celebrated their efforts.

Stuart Rothon, U-turn’s marketing manager, spoke ahead of the event. He said running had positively affected clients rebuilding their lives. He added that the event gave the public a chance to run alongside clients and hear their stories.

How effective is U-turn’s homelessness programme?

U-turn CEO Jean-Ray Knighton Fitt has described the organisation’s mission as equipping people with skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, U-turn reports a 70% successful rehabilitation rate. Some 80% of programme graduates remain employed and sober six months after completion.

A 2020 study by U-turn found that more than 14,000 people live on the streets of Cape Town. The organisation says this makes urgent, structured pathways out of homelessness essential.

What is World Homeless Day?

World Homeless Day is observed internationally on 10 October every year. It was first marked in 2010. Since then, it has been commemorated in over 100 countries. The day serves as a platform to raise awareness and celebrate local efforts. It also advocates for policies that prevent and end homelessness.

U-turn extended its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event a success. The organisation described it as a powerful reminder. People experiencing homelessness deserve dignity, opportunity, and the chance to build a brighter future.

To learn more about U-turn’s programmes and services, visit homeless.org.za.

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