Help U-Turn provide shelter for the homeless amid stormy weather

With heavy rain on Wednesday, June 25 and more wet weather expected throughout the week, the non-profit U-Turn has arranged temporary shelter to help keep vulnerable people warm and safe.

The U-Turn facility in Claremont, which normally accommodates 25 to 30 homeless people, has increased its capacity to around 70.

They’re also partnering with a local Kenilworth church, which has asked to remain anonymous, to temporarily shelter an additional 30 people until Saturday, June 28.

U-Turn CEO Jean-Ray Knighton Fitt said, “When the weather turns severe, the need on the streets grows rapidly. We want to respond and with the public’s help.”

Mr Knighton Fitt said that U-Turn's core focus is long-term rehabilitation and reintegration.

“Though in moments like these, we step up to meet immediate needs, too. This emergency effort is only possible through media coverage, faith-based partnerships and public generosity,” he said.

Mr Knighton Fitt said members of the public are encouraged to contribute by donating essential items or making a financial donation where possible.

Essential items currently needed include blankets and yoga mats, non-perishable food and stewing meat, tea, coffee, sugar, and long-life milk.

Donations of toilet paper and second-hand clothing, preferably men’s sizes in small to medium, are also welcome.

Items can be dropped off at U-Turn’s Head Office at 155 Second Avenue, Kenilworth, from 8,30am to 9pm until Friday, June 27, and from 8am to 12 noon on Saturday, June 28.

To make a financial contribution, please visit homeless.org.za/donate

For more information, contact U-Turn communications officer, Stephen Underwood, at 082 766 8803 or email stephen@homeless.org.za