A Guide to Supporting Those Experiencing Homelessness in South Africa

A Guide to Supporting Those Experiencing Homelessness in South Africa

Homelessness in South Africa is a growing concern, impacting individuals and families across all provinces. At BackaBuddy, we understand the importance of providing resources and support to those in need. This guide offers insights on supporting loved ones who may be experiencing homelessness, how to communicate compassionately, and a comprehensive list of shelters across South Africa.

Understanding Stigmas and Causes of Homelessness

Addressing homelessness requires empathy and awareness of the many factors contributing to it. Unfortunately, some stigmas persist that can prevent effective support and understanding. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Common Causes
    • Economic Hardships: Job loss, low wages, or insufficient affordable housing are significant contributors.
    • Health Issues: Both physical and mental health challenges can affect a person’s ability to maintain employment or stable housing.
    • Family Disruption: Domestic violence, family conflict, or loss of a family member can lead individuals to homelessness.
    • Lack of Support Services: Without access to mental health care, job training, or rehabilitation services, many struggle to regain stability.
  • Common Stigmas
    • Laziness or Lack of Motivation: Many believe those experiencing homelessness are unwilling to work, overlooking systemic challenges they face.
    • Substance Abuse: Although addiction may contribute to homelessness for some, many affected individuals struggle with complex mental health and economic issues.
    • Criminal History: A past conviction can limit access to stable employment or housing, pushing some into homelessness.

 

How to Support a Loved One Experiencing Homelessness

Supporting someone facing homelessness can be challenging, but small, meaningful actions can make a big difference. What can you do?

  1. Listen with Empathy
    Approach conversations with openness and empathy. Just being present can help them feel valued and less isolated.
  2. Offer Practical Assistance
    • Provide essential items like a meal, warm clothing, hygiene products, or transport fare to meet immediate needs.
    • Support them through fundraising on platforms like BackaBuddy, where crowdfunding campaigns can help secure essentials, temporary housing, or job training resources.
  3. Encourage Steps Forward
    Offer hope by encouraging small, manageable steps toward stability, such as exploring job training or reaching out to shelters for transitional housing.

 

Communicating with Respect and Compassion

When speaking to someone who is experiencing homelessness, an empathetic, respectful approach can make all the difference. Here’s how:

  • Be Respectful: Address them as an equal, using their name if known.
  • Listen Actively: Let them share without interrupting or judging.
  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: Invite them to share what kind of support would be most helpful.
  • Offer Help, Not Solutions: Ask how you can assist instead of assuming what they need.
  • Respect Boundaries: Recognize their need for privacy and personal space.
  • Show Compassion: Sometimes just knowing someone cares can make a difference.

 

Legal Rights of Homeless Individuals

In South Africa, there are rights in place to protect and support those experiencing homelessness. Being aware of these can provide some relief:

  • Access to Shelter: Municipalities are encouraged to provide emergency shelter to those in need.
  • Right to Dignity and Privacy: The South African Constitution safeguards dignity and privacy for everyone, regardless of their living situation.
  • Access to Health and Social Services: Free healthcare and emergency housing assistance are available for those in crisis.

 

Immediate Resources for Those in Crisis

In times of crisis, knowing where to turn for help can be life-changing. If someone is experiencing homelessness or a crisis, here’s where they can get help: 

Emergency Contacts

  • Police / Ambulance: 10111
  • National Gender-Based Violence Hotline: 0800 428 428
  • Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
  • Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322 (counseling services)

Mental Health Support

Job Training and Skills Development

  • YES (Youth Employment Service): Employment experience for youth, enhancing employability.
  • SETA Programs: Free training programs in various industries. Visit the SAQA SETA Program Page for more information.

 

Shelters Across South Africa

Providing safe shelter is essential. Below is a list of shelters in South Africa that offer housing, food, counseling, and other supportive services.

  • Gauteng Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Alexandra Bombani Shelter [email protected] 011 027 1513 / 079 892 9579
2 Ekurhuleni Mercy Haven [email protected] 010 444 1090 / 074 141 7603
3 Ekurhuleni AMCARE Hannah House [email protected] 011 869 5856 / 065 811 7266
4 Ekurhuleni CTC Bethesda House [email protected] 011 845 2224 / 083 433 6505
5 Ekurhuleni POWA (East Rand) [email protected] 011 901 0292 / 083 280 2334
6 JHB Metro Ikhaya Lethemba [email protected] 011 240 3600 / 066 010 8739
7 Pretoria Beth Shan Shelter [email protected] 012 379 6671 / 083 290 1968
8 Pretoria Mercy House [email protected] 012 329 6682 / 076 522 0532
9 Pretoria Youth for Survival [email protected] 012 304 0001 / 072 796 7914
10 West Rand POWA (West Rand) [email protected] 011 472 6631 / 072 819 0150
11 Durban Denis Hurley Centre [email protected] 031 301 2240
12 Durban iCare Shelter [email protected] 031 572 6870

  • Eastern Cape Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth Shelter [email protected] 041 484 0511
2 East London East London Shelter [email protected] 043 722 6166

  • Free State Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Bloemfontein Bloemfontein Night Shelter [email protected] 051 430 7601
2 Welkom Welkom Shelter [email protected] 057 352 0936

  • Limpopo Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Polokwane Polokwane Night Shelter [email protected] 015 292 4620
2 Thohoyandou Thohoyandou Shelter t[email protected] 015 962 5050
  • Mpumalanga Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Mbombela Mbombela Shelter [email protected] 013 755 1000
2 Nelspruit Nelspruit Night Shelter [email protected] 013 753 9000

  • Northern Cape Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Kimberley Kimberley Shelter [email protected] 053 831 0371

  • Western Cape Shelters
No. Area Name of Shelter Email Phone Number
1 Cape Town Cape Town Shelter [email protected] 021 462 2862
2 George George Shelter [email protected] 044 874 5285

Getting Involved Locally

Homelessness can feel overwhelming, but local efforts make a difference. Here’s how you can help:

  • Volunteer at Shelters: Offer time or skills to support local shelters.
  • Organize Donation Drives: Collect essentials like blankets, hygiene products, and clothing.
  • Advocate for Change: Engage with community leaders to promote affordable housing, healthcare, and job programs.

Be a Lifeline: Support, Donate, or Champion the Cause

  • SuperTroupers Campaign: Donate here to support vital resources for individuals and families in need.
  • PMB Homeless Network: Become a Champion and join a movement dedicated to transforming lives.

If you’re looking for more ways to get involved or want to learn about additional resources, visit BackaBuddy and become part of the change.

How to source champions to support your charity at events

How to source champions to support your charity at events

Image credit: twooceansmarathon.org.za

Crowdfunding is growing rapidly in South Africa, giving non-profit organizations an opportunity to raise more money by tapping into the power of the crowd.

Although over R550 million has been raised on BackaBuddy for various causes, our most successful charities, will tell you that crowdfunding is not easy.

To make things a little easier for our charities, our expert team has put together this article on how to diversify your income stream and explore different ways to raise additional funds by using some of the most famous local events.

Once you have registered your charity to raise funds on BackaBuddy, the next step is to find champions and put together a fundraising team.

Where can you find champions?

TIP 1: The best place to find champions to raise funds for your organisation is to reach out to past fundraisers who have supported your organisation.

TIP 2: If you have volunteers at your organisation, ask them if they would be interested in putting together a campaign to highlight a need you might have or help to promote your new champions that sign-up.

TIP 3: Reach out to friends, family, colleagues and social groups to see if the keen chamipons among you would like to raise funds for your organisation.

 

TIP 4: Create a post on Social Media to see if any of your followers are taking part in the event. If anyone on your social network is entering the challenge message them privately to see if they will champion your cause! You can also share this post on various groups and forums to reach potential donors.

TIP 5: Following the official social media hashtags for the event could also introduce you to potential champions. Simply click on the following resource to explore hashtags you can use:  Ugenie

TIP 6: Send out a call to action to your email list or database to see if any of your donors will be participating in the event and would like to raise funds for you.

Here is a template you could use: 

Dear (name)

I hope you are well and staying safe.

We are reaching out to you, as you have been a valued supporter of our organization and the work we do.

This Month, we are putting together a fundraising team of champions for the _______________, which will take place from _______________. We are hoping to raise funds at the event to create awareness for our organisation and raise much-needed funds for _______________.

If you are passionate about our organisation and the work we do to _________, please consider entering the _______________ to raise funds on our behalf.

How to enter:

Register for the _______________ here (website).
Create your fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy by letting the team know who you are, how much you would like to raise, and why you are passionate about your organisation here. 

If you have any questions please contact Lakiwe your dedicated BackaBuddy Head of Charities via email:[email protected] to arrange a meeting.

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon

 

How can you support your champions?

You need to support your champions as much as possible to empower them to raise funds for you.

Show your champions who you are

If you have an organisational video and some emotive and inspiring images that show the valuable work you do, share them with your champions. This will motivate and inspire your champions on their crowdfunding journey and give them beautiful content to share across social media 

Give your champions the latest statistics relating to your organisation and tell them about your success stories, so they can tell their networks about you and encourage donations.

Tell your champions what you need.

Crowdfunding with a tangible need, always speaks better to the public. Give your champions an idea of how funds raised will be used to benefit your organisation. This will help them determine their fundraising target and encourage potential donors to donate funds in those increments.

(For example)

R100 will allow us to purchase 1 pair of shoes that will benefit disadvantaged children living in Edenvale, Johannesburg”

“Raising R10 000 will cover allow us to cover the data costs for 100 students struggling with online learning in their matric year”

“If we raise R100 000 with our crowdfunding campaign, we will be able to refurbish two classrooms

If your runner has a personal connection with your charity and would like to fundraising for a particular need that resonates with them, this will make an emotive crowdfunding appeal!

Highlight your donors and help them spread the word

During your champion’s crowdfunding journey they will also need your encouragement and support to achieve their fundraising goal. 

Create a post on social media to introduce your champion to your social media following, post updates about their campaign and congratulate them when they reach certain milestones.  Encourage your champions to also share their connection with your organisation on their social media platforms when sharing their crowdfunding campaign link.

Examples of social media posts you could create:

Stefani from Cape Town is halfway towards reaching her fundraising target of R100 000 on BackaBuddy! With the support she has received thus far, we can cover the registration cost of 10 learners at UCT! 

Communicate with your champions

Create a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with your champions, and see how their campaigns are doing and where their successes or struggles lie. Host regular Zoom meetings with your champions to motivate them, say thank you and offer them some encouragement. If you would like a BackaBuddy team member present in your workshops, let us know and we will be happy to share our expertise!

Encourage more donations

  • If your organisation is Section 18A certified, let your champions know to share this information with their potential donors as this is a great incentive to encourage donations in larger amounts. If you are Section 18A certified, let us know and we can add it to your campaign page for all potential donors to see! 

We hope you found value in our advice, if your organisations have any questions, please reach out to us. The BackaBuddy team is here to help.

We wish your organisation and all your champions at the event all the best on their journey!

 

Ensuring the integrity of our donor community

Ensuring the integrity of our donor community

At BackaBuddy, we cherish our diverse donor community and are committed to protecting your trust. To keep our platform secure and transparent, our dedicated team works diligently to verify every crowdfunding campaign before processing payouts and activating charity profiles.

We want you to know that these processes are designed to uphold the values of trust and goodwill. They reflect our commitment to our community, not a judgment on your cause or efforts.

How It Works

When donations come in, they’re safely held in the BackaBuddy bank account until we can verify your campaign and ensure it’s ready for payout. Whenever you’re ready, simply log in and submit your documents.

Just a heads-up: your verification documents will only be reviewed after we receive your first donation. Our team is here for you, so please allow up to 5 working days for feedback on your submission.

How Do I Get My Campaign Verified?

To make the verification process as smooth as possible and to ensure a prompt payout for your campaign, please follow these friendly steps:

  1. Log in to your account.
  2. Navigate to the menu and click on Profile.
  3. Go to My Campaigns, then click the down arrow next to your campaign.
  4. Select Manage Campaign, then click on Verification.
  5. Submit the requested documents and banking details.

What Documents Will Be Requested?

Proof of Identity of the Campaign Creator (choose one of the following):

  • Identity document
  • Passport
  • Driver’s license

Supporting Documentation
Any documents that help clarify your campaign or explain its goals are welcome. Please ensure all submissions are legible and clear. Check out the next section for examples!

Banking Details
Please provide the bank account details where you’d like your funds sent. We’ll need proof of your bank account, ideally dated within the last 3 months.

 *Please double-check you are inserting the correct account details

How to Request Payout

Self-Managed Campaigns:
Once your campaign shows the verified badge, you’re all set for payout! When you’re ready, follow these simple steps:

  1. Log in to your profile.
  2. Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
  3. Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
  4. Select Payout Request.

Our finance team will take care of your request and typically requires up to 10 working days to process it.

Blue Tick Campaigns:
If you have a Blue Tick campaign, you’re in luck! It’s immediately eligible for payout. To request it, just follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your profile.
  2. Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
  3. Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
  4. Select Payout Request.

Don’t forget to submit a payout document with your request, such as an invoice, statement, or receipt for reimbursement. Just a little reminder: you can only request one payment at a time, so please wait until the previous one is completed before submitting another.

*Kindly double-check that the account number you have manually inserted matches the account number on the payout document. 

Examples of Supporting Documents per category

 

Individuals

Medical

  • Doctor’s report
  • Medical report
  • Medical aid letter
  • Pharmacy account
  • Hospital discharge note
  • Hospital invoice

In Loving Memory

  • Death certificate
  • Funeral home invoice

Fire/Drought/Disaster Support

  • Fire report
  • Police report
  • Invoices for replacing damaged goods

Education

  • Fee statement
  • Registration letter
  • Acceptance letter

Sports

  • Invitation to the sports event
  • Letter confirming the intention to attend

Women & Girls

  • Invoices for items to be purchased
  • Letter from the organization if partnering

Animals

  • Vet bill
  • Invoice from the vet

Creative/Arts

  • For art conventions (IMTA, iPOP, etc.) – invitation to the event
  • For equipment (musical instruments/videography equipment) – invoices from the supplier

Food & Hunger

  • Invoices from suppliers
  • Receipt for items bought (for reimbursement)

Environment

  • Permits – depending on the intended use of funds
  • Invoices for equipment

Children

  • If clothes are being purchased – invoices for clothing
  • If for school fees – fee statement per child
  • If raising funds for a school – a letter from the school principal

Community Development

  • If partnering with a charity/organization – a letter confirming the intent of the campaign
  • Invoices for food items to be purchased (pay directly)

Business/App

  • Business plans
  • Business registration documents
  • Budgets

Charities

  • A valid NPO certificate
  • Active social media pages (more than 1 year old)
  • A clear image of the charity/NPO logo

Please remember that any documentation you submit won’t be displayed on your campaign page. However, they play a crucial role in our verification process, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

 

A Support Guide for Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones

A Support Guide for Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones

Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re seeking emotional support, medical funding, or guidance on nutrition and wellness, there are resources available to help you every step of the way. This guide brings together some of the most helpful tools for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. From connecting with others who truly understand, to finding practical advice, these resources are here to remind you that hope and support are always within reach.

Crowdfunding for Medical Procedures: Accessing the Care You Need

The cost of cancer treatments can add stress to an already difficult situation. Crowdfunding provides a way to share your story and raise the funds needed for essential medical procedures. By reaching out to your community, you open the door for friends, family, and even strangers to contribute to your care. Each donation helps reduce the financial burden and brings you closer to getting the treatment you need.

At BackaBuddy, we offer a platform to share your story and raise funds for life-saving procedures. You’re not just raising funds—you’re building a network of people who care deeply about your health and well-being. Start your campaign on BackaBuddy.

Finding Your Cancer Buddy: Someone Who Gets It

Connecting with others who’ve faced similar challenges can make a world of difference. In South Africa, Cancer Buddies pairs you with someone who understands what you’re going through and offers emotional support. Sharing your journey with a cancer buddy can provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you are not alone in this fight.

Nutrition and Exercise: Strengthening Your Body Through Wellness

Focusing on nutrition and exercise is a positive way to take control of your health. South Africa’s CANSA offers nutritional guidance specifically for cancer patients, ensuring you’re nourishing your body in ways that support healing. Gentle exercise can also improve your strength and mood, giving you a sense of empowerment during your treatment.

Hospice Care: Comfort and Peace for You and Your Loved Ones

For those needing end-of-life care, hospice offers compassion and comfort. South Africa’s Hospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA) ensures that you and your family receive the care and support needed during this difficult time. Hospice services focus on providing dignity, peace, and relief from pain, helping families navigate these moments with care and respect.

Free Counseling and Emotional Support: A Space to Heal

The emotional toll of cancer can be just as significant as the physical one. In South Africa, CancerCare and PinkDrive provide free support services. PinkDrive focuses on early detection, education, and support for breast cancer patients, offering free mammograms and educational resources through their mobile clinics. Having someone to listen, provide guidance, or offer practical assistance can be a valuable source of strength during your cancer journey.

Clinical Trials: Exploring Advanced Treatment Options

Many cancer patients find hope in participating in clinical trials that test new treatments. The South African Clinical Trials Registry offers information about ongoing cancer trials. Globally, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provides details about clinical trials for various types of cancer, offering opportunities for patients to access cutting-edge therapies.

Cancer Support Groups: Building a Community of Strength

In addition to one-on-one cancer buddies, local and online cancer support groups can offer community, comfort, and encouragement. Reach for Recovery is a South African-based volunteer organisation providing emotional and practical support to breast cancer patients. Globally, online platforms like Cancer Support Community allow patients and families to join virtual support groups, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive guidance.

Apps for Support and Organization

Technology can help make managing your care easier. The CANSA iSurvivor app, specifically designed for South African cancer patients, offers tailored information and support. Apps like CareZone can help organise medications, appointments, and important health details, allowing you to focus on your well-being without worrying about the logistics.

Books to Inspire and Guide You

Books can be a source of comfort and wisdom as you navigate the challenges of cancer. Here are a few that may resonate with you:

Social Media Support: Staying Connected

Social media platforms can provide real-time support and community engagement. Following organisations like CANSA on Facebook and Twitter keeps you informed about events, resources, and stories of hope. These networks remind you that, even online, you’re part of a larger community that’s rooting for your recovery.

You Are Never Alone

In this journey, remember that your diagnosis does not define you. You are part of a vast network of support, ready to stand by you through every challenge—be it financial, emotional, or practical. Your story is unique and powerful, and each step you take toward healing is a testament to your strength and resilience. 

If you know someone who might benefit from this support, please share this resource with them. Your willingness to connect can make a meaningful difference in their journey. 

 

Raise Funds with BackaBuddy: How It Works

Raise Funds with BackaBuddy: How It Works

Crowdfunding with BackaBuddy empowers you to raise funds for any cause by harnessing the power of community support. Whether it’s medical expenses, memorials, adventures, or more, our platform helps you create impactful campaigns. Donations are purely out of generosity, allowing everyone to be part of the solution and drive positive change.

How It Works

Creating a fundraiser on BackaBuddy is simple and free. Set up your campaign, share it with your network, and start receiving donations. There are no time limits or penalties, and you can continue receiving funds even after reaching your target. We vet every campaign to ensure integrity, and for added security to our donors, funds can be paid directly to vendors. Payouts are processed within 10 business days.

Why BackaBuddy?

BackaBuddy offers a fast, legitimate way to raise funds without upfront fees. It’s an alternative to traditional funding, reaching beyond your immediate network. With no repayment clauses, donations go directly to those in need. Donors love the sense of community and belonging.

 

Watch the video below for more information:

 

Contact us if you need further assistance: BackaBuddy