To appreciate the transformative power of books, you only have to meet Eric Badise. I met him recently while writing a story for GroundUp about homelessness.
Eric lived on the streets of Durban and in shelters for three years, washing cars and taxis to cover shelter costs before joining the Denis Hurley Centre’s Street Lit project, which helps homeless people earn money by selling donated second-hand books.
In the shelter, Eric shared a large room with strangers, with little privacy or security. He had to ask a friend to watch his belongings while he showered or used the toilet. He spoke about the daily struggles of life on the streets — finding a place to sleep, getting food, and staying safe. It is a dangerous environment, and many people fall into drugs and alcohol.
“But now I can afford to rent my own flat because I sell books,” he says. “I read to understand my work. Reading has made me realise my potential. All of us have potential and creativity.”
The Denis Hurley Centre is a proactive Durban-based NGO that supports the city’s poor and marginalised communities. One of its flagship entrepreneurship projects is Street Lit, which helps 25 homeless and formerly homeless men and women earn a basic income through bookselling.
The project is run by Illa Thompson, who believes books and care can change the world.
“The vendors are living proof of how books can change lives,” she says.
Street Lit is always looking for places where vendors can safely and legally sell books in busy public spaces, either permanently or as pop-ups. Donations of quality second-hand books are also welcome.
The project operates from St John Ambulance and Eye Care at 129 KE Masinga Road (Old Fort Road) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8am to 10am.
Contact: 083 326 3234 / books@denishurleycentre.org
