Denis Hurley Centre, working with Grace Family Church and the Hare Krishna group Food For Life, made 1,059 people very happy

On Friday 16 June, the Denis Hurley Centre and Grace Family Church held a Street Store, giving the poor and homeless an opportunity to choose a few items of clothing from among a huge pile of like-new donated items.

“Often when clothing is donated, the person receiving it has no choice in what they get. They are expected to just be grateful for whatever is given to them,” said David Richter of the Grace Family Church. “With the Street Store, they come in and choose something they like. It is a very dignified experience.”

“I’m so happy, I thank Jesus,” said 46-year-old Sibongile Mhlongo, who calls the streets of Durban’s Warwick market area her home. She was delighted with her orange sandals, and having a foot wash and manicure.

Raymond Perrier, director of the Denis Hurley Centre, said they were happy to be part of the initiative and to see many young people give up their time on Youth Day to volunteer. Apart from the opportunity to choose new or nearly new clothes, homeless people in Durban were also treated to haircuts, manicures, foot massages and breyani for lunch. The meals were donated by Food for Life Durban Central.

“When people of faith come together it is amazing what we can do to serve the poor citizens of Durban, Perrier said. “This event shows we can all come together for a common good and give a wonderful experience to those who appreciate it.”