THE CHALLANGE

Homelessness remains a major global crisis, with an estimated 100 million people living without stable shelter. This widespread issue continues to grow in many nations despite various efforts to combat it. Kitso Lesedi Community Development initially started with small resources, helping just 45 people, but the demand quickly surged to 195, and local business support became insufficient. While providing immediate relief through food and clothing, the organization faced challenges in addressing the larger issues of long-term reintegration and empowerment. The dependency on external aid was unsustainable, and social integration for the homeless, especially without skills or support systems, remained a significant hurdle.

THE SOLUTION

In response to the growing challenges, we launched a feeding program to address immediate needs, initially providing food and basic care to those in crisis. As the number of homeless individuals increased, we have reached out to local businesses for additional support, recognizing that collaboration within the community was key to scaling their efforts.

  • Feeding Program: Addressing immediate needs by providing food, clothing, and care.
  • Skills Development: Offering training programs to empower individuals with skills for long-term self-reliance.
  • Holistic Support: Fostering emotional, spiritual, and practical care to reintegrate individuals into society as productive citizens.

To build a sustainable solution, Kitso Lesedi expanded its services beyond food and clothing by introducing skills training and development programs. These initiatives empower homeless individuals to become self-sufficient.

Who We Are

Kitso Lesedi Development Community is a, non-governmental organization established in October 2006. Kitso Lesedi Development Community is a non-governmental organization established in October 2006, based in the City of Tshwane. Our mission is to serve the most vulnerable members of our community, particularly those living on the streets, in parks, or in dilapidated buildings. We aim to prevent street homelessness, fight poverty, and build clean, healthy, and sustainable communities. We are committed to addressing the social, psychological, and educational needs of the homeless through intervention programs, case work, counseling, and restorative services. Our social services team provides support five days a week, offering nutritious meals, health care, and counseling. Kitso Lesedi operates three key programs:


  • Training and Soft Skills Development:
    Focused on homeless individuals, rehabilitated addicts, and unemployed youth and women, we offer skill-building and employment readiness.
  • Drug and Substance Abuse Awareness:
    Providing early intervention, prevention, and aftercare services.
  • Family Reunification and Counseling:
    Supporting the reunification of rehabilitated individuals with their families through counseling and travel to other provinces.

We are dedicated to helping individuals restore their lives and reintegrate into society.

OUR PARTNERS

Empowering Champions

Raising leaders from homeless communities by implementing programs that bring beauty out of ashes.

Access to Government Services

Helping beneficiaries gain access to social services like Disability Grants, Social Grants, and HIV Grants.

Counseling and Healing

Offering individual and group counseling to restore dignity, hope, and emotional well-being.

Family Reunification

Facilitating reconciliation and reunification between beneficiaries and their families and communities.

Strategic Partnerships

Partnering with NGOs and stakeholders to expand support services and maximize impact.

Skills and Employment

Creating income-generating activities and providing education, training, and entrepreneurial support.

OUR RECENT PROJECTS