Homeless man now has shelter – built by women
A NEW home for a previously homeless Nompumelelo man has been built for him – by women.
Luyanda Sbharho, who works as a gardener in Beacon Bay, was given R1 700 from his employer to build the structure.
About five women in the neighbourhood who form part of the organisation Thuma-mna, then built the structure in Solomon Mahlangu Street.
Sbharho was all smiles when the Saturday Dispatch visited him.
“I can’t describe how I feel. I am just very happy and very grateful to the ladies who helped build my new house,” Sbako said.
Sbharho had previously lived in a make-shift shack without any doors, or sides. He used old, torn blankets to shield himself from harsh weather.
Concerns ran high among neighbours when he used the dwelling as a toilet, kitchen and bedroom.
It posed a health risk, prompting Thuma-mna to clean up his area.
The previous space he occupied was also laden with rubbish and a broken mattress.
“Now he can enjoy a new bed and warmer house.
Zoliswa Tsonono, a representative from Thuma-mna, said Sbako approached his employer and told him about his living conditions.
“We got the donation and decided to get the material and bed for him and then we built the structure for him.
“We also bought food for him. I am very excited that his boss decided to help him and that we are lending a hand in making sure he lives in a better condition.
“I am very thankful and excited for him to now live better,” Tsonono said.
Sbharho said his employer was unaware of his living conditions, but thankful he had opened his heart to help out.
“He came to see where I live and he was shocked and he wanted to restore my dignity.
“It was always my dream to have a house and now this makes me very happy,” he said.
Thulisiwe Solomon, another member of Thuma-mna, said they wanted to help the community and make a difference.
“This house will mean a lot to him because he has struggled a lot without a house and living in such a bad condition before,” she said. — oreillya@tisoblackstar.co.za