We need rain but wet weather is very hard for the homeless

IN THE past couple of days we had some much-needed rain. In some places there was severe flooding and I think there is more to come. We need every single drop of rain we get.

The situation with some homeless people and those living in shacks is that we are challenged to keep our bedding, clothing, and at times ourselves, dry.

During some clean-up operations we had our plastic sails removed. Without them, we are open to the elements. They insulate heat and are waterproof. Some shelters are very busy sorting people out for the winter readiness programme.

Where the shelters cannot accommodate people, they get referred to shelters in areas like Paarl, Ceres and Malmesbury. The programme runs until September.

We still have no place to store our belongings like our bedding, clothing, etc. During the winter time, we are mentally and physically pushed to the limit. Tempers flare.

We still get woken up at 4am in some areas. Where would they like us to go in this rainy weather? They must have done a verbal course in chasing us from pillar to post, as they all have standard phrases they use. That icy “move” really gets to me. I am so gatvol bitching about the same things day in and day out. I sometimes wonder how Ashley Kriel (1966- 1987) – an activist from Bonteheuwel – would have handled the situation. Wish I had his guts and determination…

The problem with winter is that we can’t really be anywhere indoors. There is the library, but it’s not suitable. I am so grateful to the staff there. They have always treated us with respect.

You know, back in the day homeless people treated each other and each others’ belongings with respect. Very seldom did we steal from each other. Lately, people go out of their way to take from one another.

I’ve tried to figure this out. We used to be there for one another. Not any more. I know a guy who was done in by his very best friend who hid drugs under his cardboard box. He is now doing time in Pollsmoor.

And the minute somebody makes an effort to go out there and get a job, people go out of their way to mess things up. One actually celebrates in silence. The minute you are out there working, you are just seen as a means to an end. A benefit. Sad but true.

I ask you, dear reader, to be a bit more patient with us this winter. It is challenging. We will be moody and at times rude. Forgive us. Frustration, cold, and at times an empty stomach can make one grumpy.

If anybody can help with old socks and shoes, please mail me. Gumboots would be awesome! Anything waterproof is desperately needed.

Mail me at: masekind32il.com.