From the Streets to Stability: A Conversation with U-TURN’s Brandon on Real Solutions to Homelessness
From the Streets to Stability: A Conversation with U-TURN’s Brandon on Real Solutions to Homelessness
| Back Chat – Bush Radio 89.5FM
Good afternoon, Cape Town. At Back Chat on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, we believe that radio is more than just sound it’s a platform for meaningful conversations that drive awareness and change. In this week’s segment, we turned our focus to one of the most urgent and visible challenges facing our city: homelessness.
But rather than dwell on the problem, we highlighted solutions, and more importantly, the people behind those solutions. One of them is Brandon from U-TURN Homeless Ministries, a Cape Town-based organization that does far more than offer short-term relief it walks people through a full life-change journey toward independence and dignity.
The Birth of U-TURN: A Mission Rooted in Hope
U-TURN was founded with a powerful vision: to create lasting change for people experiencing homelessness not just survival, but transformation. As Brandon explained, the organization began in response to the overwhelming need for not just food and shelter, but guidance, skills, and support that can rebuild lives from the ground up.
The “Life Change Journey” More Than Just Shelter
What makes U-TURN stand out is its structured, step-by-step program designed to walk individuals through a full journey of recovery. It begins with basic needs food, clothing, and medical support but quickly progresses to skills development, therapy, and eventually reintegration into society through job placement and community support.
“It’s not a handout, it’s a hand up,” Brandon shared. “We believe everyone can change with the right tools and time.”
Beyond Handouts: Why Sustainable Support Matters
One of the biggest misconceptions around homelessness is that giving food or money directly solves the issue. But U-TURN’s model is built on sustainable development. It’s about breaking dependency cycles and empowering individuals to become self-reliant. This long-term approach addresses not just physical needs, but emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing as well.
Innovation in Action: The Mi-Change Voucher System
Brandon also spoke about Mi-change, U-TURN’s innovative voucher system that allows people to help responsibly. Instead of giving cash, Capetonians can buy vouchers that provide real value meals, clothing, and access to support services.
“It restores dignity. People use the voucher to choose what they need. It gives them agency.”
The Invisible Struggles of the Homeless
When we think of homelessness, we often picture someone sleeping on a sidewalk. But Brandon reminded us that the real struggles are often unseen: mental health issues, trauma, addiction, and the deep loss of identity and connection.
“We’re not just addressing homelessness we’re healing brokenness.”
The Role of Faith, Values, and Community
U-TURN is deeply rooted in values of compassion, respect, and transformation, and faith plays a role in its mission. But it also thrives on community partnerships with local businesses, volunteers, donors, and civic groups coming together to support the cause.
A Story of Change: From the Streets to a New Life
One of the most moving parts of the interview was when Brandon shared a personal success story a man who had been homeless for over a decade, battling addiction, shame, and isolation. Through U-TURN’s support, he not only found stability, but now works full-time and mentors others starting the journey he once walked.
“We don’t save people. We stand next to them until they can stand on their own.”
How You Can Help
For those wondering how to make a difference, Brandon was clear: awareness, time, and resources all count. You can donate, volunteer, buy Mi-change vouchers, or even just take a moment to acknowledge and speak to someone who may be on the street.
Visit www.homeless.org.za to learn more or get involved.
Final Thoughts
As we wrapped up our conversation, I was left with a deep sense of hope. Brandon and the team at U-TURN are proving that transformation is possible, and that with the right approach, no one is beyond recovery.
At Back Chat, we’ll continue shining a light on those doing the hard, compassionate work. Because every voice deserves to be heard, and every life matters.
Until next time, stay kind, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of community.
Back Chat-Bush Radio
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