![\"Each](\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/tygerburger\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Mi-changehavelaunche_74510.jpg\")
The digital vouchers cannot be traded or sold, which organisers say prevents their misuse as an informal street currency and ensures donations directly support participants engaged in the programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Our main goal is to provide people with a pathway out of homelessness,” Dickenson explained. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For participants, the vouchers signal that they are actively engaged in the programme, taking meaningful steps to leave homelessness behind, and rebuild their lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“By reducing street solicitation and limiting cash on the streets \u2014 which can often fuel addiction and dependency \u2014 digital Mi-change vouchers offer a safe, practical way to meet essential needs, whilst connecting individuals with support services.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Research-based design informs expansion plans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The digital voucher system was developed in collaboration with behavioural research organisation ideas42, incorporating interviews and user-testing with both homeless individuals and donors. The pilot forms part of a broader collaboration between U-turn, MES, and the Citi Foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Based on findings from the current pilot, Mi-change plans to expand the programme to additional U-turn and MES centres across Cape Town in the new year, with longer-term goals to extend into other regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Addressing digital economy challenges<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dickenson noted that the initiative addresses challenges created by South Africa’s increasingly digitised economy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“For people living on the streets, the shift in spending means fewer opportunities to receive small cash donations. The digital vouchers help fill that gap in a practical, meaningful way.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Mi-change for Good in Cape Town is piloting digital vouchers for homeless that can be exchanged for meals, shelter, clothing at select homeless 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