As temperatures continue to drop in Windhoek, many people without homes are spending their nights in riverbeds, on sidewalks and in cardboard boxes to protect themselves from the cold.

One local pastor believes more can be done to provide a safe place for people to sleep.

Pastor Kenneth Linno opened a temporary night shelter in Khomasdal that offers a bed, a warm shower and meals for homeless people.

Guests are asked to contribute N$50 per night, although the pastor noted no one will be turned away simply because they cannot afford the fee.

The shelter can accommodate up to 35 people.

Linno said the idea came after seeing many people sleeping outside in riverbeds and under bridges during the winter months.

"Instead of just giving soup or something, let's be more involved. So I proposed to the church with the small space available to open a temporary shelter for people to sleep.”

He explained that the N$50 contribution is intended to provide people a sense of responsibility while helping cover the cost of providing dinner, breakfast and basic services.

However, he stressed that people who have no money will still be assisted, with the shelter working together with community members and other organisations to help those most in need.

Running the shelter has also highlighted the challenges many homeless people face beyond simply needing a place to sleep.

"Imagine living outside. People often use these substances to get through the night and cope with hunger. Then they come here, often without clean clothes. We try to provide them with clothes that fit, as well as soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and face cloths. We also provide towels, bedding, Vaseline, and other basic necessities. The idea is to help them feel clean, sleep in a clean bed, and remind them what it feels like to have a place that feels like home."