Mary-Anne Mngomezulu founded the ‘Our Address Shelter’ four years ago to address the crisis of the rising number of people living on the streets; she thanks all those who helped her reach this moment.
Plettenberg Bay, South Africa (24 July 2023) – Homeless shelters are far and few between with the need being far greater than the availability. Four years ago, Plettenberg Bay residents were at their wits end with the homeless crisis and demanded the police do something. Mary-Anne Mngomezulu decided to take a different approach to the problem, and opened a homeless shelter.
Our Address Shelter is run by the Native Roots NPO and is a drug and alcohol-free home for the homeless in Plett. They house homeless people and work to promote sustainability. The shelter has an abundant food garden and this is a major focus for all that call the shelter home. They have over 50 fruit trees, bees, chickens and endless gardens filled with medicinal plants and food.
“Our family test clean for drugs week after week, demonstrating that connection, a safe, clean place to live, nutrient rich food and emotional support plays an important role in rehabilitating homeless people who are battling addiction.” – Mary-Anne Mngomezulu
Mary-Anne has made it a point to give each of the residents a home, not just a roof over their heads. She has dedicated her life to knowing the people that stay at the shelter, honouring them in their good times and supporting them through the bad times.
She remembers every person, and makes sure they live life with dignity. If any of the residents pass, she takes time to share their story and to make sure they are seen.
Mary-Anne took to Facebook to celebrate the 4 years of being open and to give thanks to all those who have supported her and the team.
“Homeless people created and maintained a Beautiful, safe Shelter, a disaster response centre that serves all fire victims in CX.
Thank you for all the Godsend Angels who heeded their call. Thank you Plett.”
You can find more about the shelter here.
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