Sipho Ncube
​Esther Mvimbi, 38, has experienced a life-changing transformation after finding refuge at Mali Martin, a shelter funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development for abused women and children.
During a Homeless Service Delivery Blitz held on Tuesday, 09 July 2024 in Kanana, Hammanskraal, Mvimbi shared her story: "After losing my job four years ago, I also lost a place I was renting and ended up homeless with my four children. My own family was never supportive, even during my turbulent times."
She further explained, "I quickly became trapped in debt to loan sharks and was forced to be homeless. Fortunately, Social Workers at a local clinic, helped me get to the Mali Martin Shelter."
"At the shelter, I received counselling for my anger issues and stress. I was also introduced to budgeting programs. I managed to pay off my debts, and today I have a place of my own, which I call home," Mvimbi said. Moimane, the Deputy Chairperson of the Tshwane Homeless Forum, emphasized the need for more shelters: "Our wish is to have a homeless shelter in each Tshwane ward. Our case study with the University of Tshwane has highlighted the need for more shelters to avoid congestion."
Explaining the purpose of the blitz, Departmental Social Work Supervisor Pulane Mollo-Chego said, "We are here to provide information to create pathways for homelessness within this area. We encourage those who seek help to go to shelters, which collaborate with the City of Tshwane and the Gauteng Department of Social Development"
Mollo-Chego highlighted that her department funds Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) that render services on behalf of the Department, which include psychosocial services, accommodation, skills development programs, and three meals per day.
Esther Mvimbi's story is a testament to the profound impact that support and shelter can have on the lives of those experiencing homelessness, offering them a path to stability and self-sufficiency.