The Gauteng Department of Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has introduced mobile shower services for homeless folks in the province.
MEC Mbali Hlophe explained that these services aim to give dignity back to those without homes in the province.
“It’s about providing them with warm food and a shower. It’s also about making sure our social workers can reach them and guide them to the various services we offer. This includes reuniting families, which is important to us because we want families to stay together.
“But when that’s not possible, we place them in our shelters where they can learn skills to take care of themselves and get off the streets sustainably,” Hlophe said.
The department stated that the mobile shower service aligns with “Pillar 1 of the Gauteng City Region Strategy on Street Adult Homelessness, which focuses on advocacy, awareness, crisis prevention, and early intervention.”
“The service will visit different locations daily, providing access to bathrooms, toilet facilities, laundry services, and connecting the homeless with other services like shelters and social work support,” the department said in a statement.
The mobile wash services will reach areas where homeless individuals are located.
“A vehicle will tow the wash trailer and office to identified hot spots where homeless people gather. These spots include parks, open areas, under bridges, and streets where homeless communities reside.
“The mobile services feature separate showers and toilets, as well as an office. The 6-meter long wash trailer, weighing approximately 2,800 kilograms, has three showers and three toilets, while the office weighs around 1,800kg,” the department noted.
The department added that the launch expands the existing assistance provided to the homeless in the province, including shelters, daily meals, social work services, skills development, substance abuse rehabilitation, and family reunification.
In shelters, homeless individuals can learn various skills, including basic computer skills, construction skills like bricklaying, and agricultural skills.
One resident at a homeless shelter, Michael Rasebokoa, expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided.
Rasebokoa, who holds a Business Administration qualification, found himself homeless after losing his job. However, through a non-profit organization at the shelter, he found a new job opportunity.
“I am thankful for the opportunities provided by the Gauteng Department of Social Development. The non-profit organizations funded by the department helped me secure a job. I am now working as a Financial Advisor in Sandton,” Rasebokoa said.
