From hospital to the streets: Qualified spray painter begs for a second chance

For two years, Andre slept under a bridge near the Hibberdene offramp. He had no income and nowhere to call home.

Now, the 52-year-old qualified spray painter is hoping for a job that will help him rebuild his life.

The Elders Voice KZN was alerted to his situation by Nat Inqaqa, who reported that an elderly man was living under the bridge.

When the organisation arrived, they found Andre sitting against a bright yellow wall. They stopped to speak to him and learnt about his struggles.

When asked how he had survived two years on the streets, Andre replied: “By the grace of God.”

His difficulties began after his divorce, when his circumstances became increasingly challenging.

He was later robbed of his belongings, including his identity document. During the struggle, he fell and severely fractured his hip.

Andre was taken to hospital but was discharged before he had fully recovered. With nowhere to go, he returned to the streets.

Without an identity document, finding employment became even more difficult.

Following the call from Inqaqa, The Elders Voice KZN took Andre to one of its facilities. He received a bath, clean clothes and a meal.

The organisation is also helping him start the process of obtaining a replacement identity document.

During their conversations, the team discovered that Andre was only 52 years old. His grey beard and limp had made him appear older.

Andre speaks English, Afrikaans, isiZulu and isiXhosa fluently. He is a qualified spray painter and has a good sense of humour. The organisation also said he does not drink alcohol.

The Elders Voice KZN said his situation highlighted the need to help people find sustainable ways to support themselves.

“People are always prepared to give you a fish, but nobody is prepared to give you a rod so you can fish for yourself,” the organisation said.

It is now appealing to employers and members of the public to help Andre find work.

The organisation hopes an employer will give him an opportunity to use his skills, earn an income and regain his independence.

“He doesn't want to spend the rest of his life depending on handouts. He wants that rod so he can fish for himself,” The Elders Voice KZN said.

IOL