Engaging with the CBD’s homeless community presents innumerable challenges during Covid-19. Yet, the CCID’s field and social workers are determined to make a difference. We spoke to them in the Tough Times supplement included in our quarterly City Views newspaper about the challenges of the job.
PAT EDDY: MANAGER
What has been Social Development’s biggest challenge since Lockdown was enforced?
The fact that there were no real services available for people living on the streets. Initially most of the NGOs were closed and there was no access to ablution facilities and regular feeding programmes.
How are you meeting this challenge?
We were able to liaise with NGO partners to assist with food. Together with our partners, we also put pressure on the City to open some ablution facilities. We also established a sanitising station and supported our partners with personal protective equipment.
SHANIEN RICH: SOCIAL WORKER
Living on the streets is harsh in winter. Is it worse this year?
Due to Covid-19, there is much more support for our clients in terms of donations compared to other years, which makes things a bit better. However, shelter space remains a challenge and a huge concern this winter.
How can the public help?
We would appreciate it if they could continue donating food and warm clothing including socks, scarves, and beanies to us or our partner NGOs.
MARK WILLIAMS: FIELD WORKER
How have you helped the homeless understand the risks of Covid-19?
I always remind them to be mindful of sharing cigarettes, to maintain a physical distance and to make this a part of their rehabilitation and daily lives.
What is the best part of your work?
When I’m in the field engaging with a client, just talking and sharing thoughts. I always get amazing stories. I also enjoy seeing them grow.
HEADMAN SIRALARALA: FIELD WORKER
Name two things you appreciate about your work …
I appreciate the privilege of being able to work when millions of people don’t have work right now. I also appreciate the collaboration between our team and our NGO partners.
What have you learnt working with the homeless community?
The importance of always treating people as human beings and with respect, realising that they could be my father, brother, mother, sister or child.
TATENDA MUCHARUNGA: SOCIAL WORKER
What keeps you motivated to assist clients?
Assisting clients gives me an opportunity to bring about the change I would like to see in the world where we are all sensitive and responsive to each other’s needs.
In this time of the coronavirus, what have been the heartening moments?
The swift response by the NGO sector in providing meals and other essential services for the homeless, particularly during the lockdown and the bravery of the frontline (field) workers who have worked throughout the lockdown.
IMAGE: CCID