Community leaders call for empathy towards homeless
One resident in Musgrave bemoaned, 'As a resident deeply invested in making our area safe, clean, and beautiful, I am concerned by the pressing issue of homelessness in Musgrave and its surroundings. While I understand that compassion and empathy are essential in addressing this complex problem, we must find a solution that benefits both the homeless and our community. The current situation is dire. Despite CSW's efforts to clean up the area, the homeless continue to return, causing havoc and negatively impacting our community.
'We have encouraged the public not to feed or give money to these individuals, as it is often used to fund their drug habits,' she claimed. 'The Sydenham Bridge pathways are a particular challenge. The homeless are using the area for urination and defecation, leaving behind a trail of filth and creating an eyesore.'
Also read: 'Permanent solution needed to eThekwini homeless crisis'
She added, 'The current cleaning schedule is insufficient, and I have witnessed firsthand the conditions on the bridge. The infestation of hundreds of cockroaches and rats is a serious health and safety concern to the public that requires immediate attention.'
The community is reportedly working with the Ward councillor, Remona McKenzie, and committee member Dees Ahmed, and security companies, together with the CPF and Durban Metro, to relocate the homeless to shelters where they can receive attention.
The efforts will soon focus on the robots at the corner of Overport Drive and Essenwood Road/St Thomas Road and other points.
Councillor McKenzie shared, 'Homelessness is a complex issue that demands empathy, understanding, and effective intervention. While many individuals experiencing homelessness face unimaginable hardship, from unemployment to mental health struggles, there is a pressing need to address the rise in criminal activities that sometimes accompany this crisis, particularly copper theft, robbery, house break-ins and others.
Also read: Glenwood groups urge mayor to act on increasing crime, homelessness
'These crimes not only damage essential infrastructure, causing blackouts, water outages, and financial loss, but they also heighten public fear and reduce trust between community members. Left unaddressed, such actions risk undermining efforts to support those in genuine need.
'While we have support systems, such as shelters, rehabilitation programmes, mental health resources, and employment initiatives, it's equally important to confront criminal behaviour that compromises the safety and security of our residents. Ignoring these issues in the name of compassion does a disservice to all: to the vulnerable in need of real help, and to the communities striving to protect what they've built.'
She highlighted that there is a blame shift mentality regarding who should address this crisis, instead of a united approach, insisting that there is a need to move the homeless to the shelters where they will receive assistance, and also address the criminal activities that come with the clean-up operations.
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