The Haven Night Shelter’s partnership with a security training company is creating employment and improving the lives of the homeless, says its CEO.
In February, 15 men, who were part of a pilot project by The Haven Night Shelter, graduated as security guards.
At the time, The Haven Night Shelter CEO, Shaddie Valayadum, said the programme, where homeless people had been trained, and placed into the workplace, was a first for the shelter since its inception in 1978 (“Project turns homeless men into security guards,” Echo, February 1).
On Saturday June 29, a further 20 homeless people from various shelters across the city and province graduated from a Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA)-grade training course, which was held at the Rotary Camp in Glencairn from Monday June 3 to Friday, June 28.
Mr Valayadum said the graduates had undergone criminal background checks before being considered for the course, which would help them to be employed by security companies.
Graduate Kirby Mcboneswa, of Kraaifontein, said she had been on the street, on and off, for about three years, and The Haven’s social worker had chosen her for the course.
“He saw something in me that I didn’t, and I’m so grateful,” she said, praising the course instructors.
“They treated us with respect, provided us with decent meals, did our washing, and listened to us when we needed to talk. They had so much patience with us, and I got my confidence back. For the first time in a long time, I have a sense of belonging and my life feels normal.”
The training company’s CEO, Giovanni Rossi, said each student had shown unwavering commitment and perseverance.
Job placements had so far been found for 11 of the graduates while the rest were being interviewed by various security firms, he said.
Mr Valayadum urged the public to work with The Haven to help the homeless, especially over winter.
“Communities have a huge role to play in the eradication of homelessness, and I want to encourage community members, businesses, and faith-based organisations to partner with The Haven,” he said.
Visit www.haven.org.za for more information.
