Women on street get makeover
If some of the women in the accompanying photograph look vaguely familiar, you may have seen them before - living on the streets of George.
As part of a project to reintroduce these women into society, the George Municipality hosted a lunch in their honour last week - adding a hair-do, make-up and a pretty dress for the occasion.
Hosted by the George Municipality Department Social Services and aimed at restoring their dignity and self-worth, the eleven women were treated to a make-over which culminated in a mini fashion show and a threecourse meal.
They also received a care pack of toiletries. Social
Services Portfolio Councillor Mercia Draghoender said the function marked another of the municipality’s outreach programmes under Project Hope, which is aimed at reintroducing women living on the streets into society and, if suitable, reuniting them with their families. “There are many spheres of government and organisations that play a role and we are taking hands with all of them to help these women find their way.”
George Executive Mayor Melvin Naik appealed to the women to consider the reasons that led to them living on the streets and to make work of changing their lives for the better. “The municipality invites you to participate in the programmes we have on offer. You can be a role model to your children. There is hope,” he said.