Social Relief and outreaches:

MES has a variety of activities where not only social relief is provided but a sense of dignity and belonging is restored amongst the poor and needy of the inner city. Within this unit there are three focus areas that work together towards the alleviation of poverty within the inner city. Collectively the activities provide opportunities for first contact and a means to establish a trust relationship with the community.

Access to resources:

MES provides the community with food relief, manages a 100 bed overnight shelter and distributes clothing, toiletries and blankets to those in need. The provision of basic care through outreaches (whether at our drop in centre or onto the streets) is used as a way to build relationships with the community, assess needs and encourage and motivate members of the community to join different developmental programmes of MES. Referrals are made to the centralised assessment centre for further intervention programmes.

Community cohesion:

Activities within this unit are focused on creating a sense of belonging and acceptance and aims to restore dignity in each homeless person’s life. Recreational activities including sport programmes are presented and support and care groups within the community are facilitated. Empowerment: MES believes that through empowerment programmes the homeless community will be enabled to make informed decisions regarding their life style, health, spirituality and futures. Campaigns focus on providing information and life skills workshops are focused on behavioural change. Joshua Youth development and service programme The Joshua youth development and service programme specifically targets school going children / youth and matriculated youth aiming at preparing them to become the future leaders of our country’s families, communities and the bigger society.