The sudden death of yet another well-known homeless man has touched the hearts of many.
Louis Cordier (45) died on Sunday 25 June, merely a few months after the death of his friend Kyle Dodd.
Sammy Springleer, chairperson of the Vredenburg Security Business Forum said the news of his death once again brought light to the urgent need to address the challenges faced by the homeless. “This unfortunate event reminds us of the dire circumstances faced by those without shelter and it calls upon us as a community to come together, show compassion and take meaningful action.”
Rowan Lamont from Lifeline Charity Projects shared the same sentiments and said the streets are not the place to live. “We need a shelter here. We keep sending our own to other areas for help and shelters. We are more comfortable with them living like they are, than rather create a space of safety that will benefit the whole of society. Unfortunately it seems the homeless have become a taboo topic, unless for political or other gain,” he said.
Louis’ mother, May Cordier, who lives in Vredenburg, said Louis had lived on the streets for a very long time. “I always told him to come home,” she said. May furthermore said her son had been a pastor for a few years in the Free State and had thoroughly enjoyed his calling before his life changed. May added that she really can’t say what went wrong in his life which made him turn to the streets. “I love him and will miss everything about him.”
Springleer said it is crucial for the community to step forward. “Together we should work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
