Saving homeless, one quilt at a time

Moved by plight of footpath denizens, philanthropists rush to offer helping hand

KARACHI/QUETTA/ KARACHI:

In the bustling metropolis teeming with life, the plight of its vulnerable often goes unnoticed and unaddressed. This winter, more than two dozen shelterless died on the sidewalks due to exposure to harsh cold in the megalopolis.

Moved by this miserable conditions of these "denizens of an alienated world", a group of philanthropists decided to launch a trailblazing effort to help them survive the unforgiving cold weather.

They were particularly moved by a report published in The Express Tribune about the homeless people braving the cold on Karachi's sidewalks. These compassionate citizens started distributing quilts, blankets, comforters, and mattresses to those sleeping under the open sky. This kind act, driven by the scant resources of the group, spotlights the power of collective goodwill.

The group's members stressed that the solution to this issue lies in collective efforts. "While many of us enjoy the warmth of our homes, the homeless endure freezing nights. Small support groups in every neighbourhood can make a big difference in saving lives," a volunteer said.

As per figures collected by charitable organisations, the harsh winter has already claimed several lives among the homeless. Volunteers stress that even a small gesture, such as providing warm clothing, can be lifesaving.

Philanthropist Asif Khan thanked The Express Tribune for shining spotlight on this pressing issue. "This is not just a problem for the homeless; it is a human problem. The report inspired me to start helping these people with whatever resources I have. I hope others join this journey of kindness."

Asif Khan and his group, operating under the name "Khushiyan" (Happiness), have begun distributing essential winter items. Their goal is to protect the homeless from the bitter cold.

Volunteer Kashif Khan highlighted the growing population of footpath dwellers in Karachi, a city that serves as Pakistan's commercial hub. Many people migrate here from other provinces in search of work but cannot afford the soaring rents. Daily wage labourers and other low-income earners often send most of their earnings back home, leaving them with little for their own shelter.

In addition to these economic migrants, social issues and financial hardships force many others, including women and children, to live on the streets. Footpaths outside hospitals like JMPC, Civil, and Abbasi Shaheed have become temporary homes for attendants of patients seeking treatment from other regions.

"Be it scorching heat, heavy rain, or the biting cold, the footpath remains their shelter," Kashif Khan said. "This winter, many lack even the most basic protection against the cold."

Volunteers Mohammad Bilal and Taha Noor shared their experiences of working with "Khushiyan." "We aim to bring happiness to those who suffer. Providing blankets, quilts, and mattresses may seem small, but it can save lives," said Bilal.

He added that a complete set of warm bedding for one homeless person costs between Rs2,000 and Rs2,500. "We urge other philanthropists to step forward and contribute in any way possible."

The group's youngest volunteers, Rafi Khan, 14, and Abdul Subhan Khan, 8, expressed pride in supporting their father, Asif Khan. "Children should also help those in need in their communities," they said.

Nisar and Hafiz Ajmal, watchmen working in Saddar, expressed their gratitude after receiving blankets. "We struggle to stay warm in the cold weather due to our low income. Today, this group gave us blankets and quilts. We thank them and hope others will follow their example."

The volunteers of "Khushiyan" believe that addressing homelessness is not solely the government's responsibility. However, they also urge the authorities to establish proper shelters for the homeless, particularly during extreme weather conditions. In a city as diverse and dynamic as Karachi, the spirit of generosity continues to shine through.