It was heartbreaking and profoundly depressing to read about Paradzai Nkomo’s terrible experience (Living in limbo, G2, 4 May). What a shocking waste of talent, and a total disregard for women’s potential and what they can offer, wherever they come from.

My family, dating right back to my grandmother and the East and West Friendship Council, have always welcomed visitors, students and refugees into our homes and we continue to do so through the Housing Justice’s London hosting network. Our current guest came to live in our spare room in October. He has been in the UK for 15 years, and is equally trapped in the idiocies of the system. He had been living on the night buses for three months, having been homeless for a year. He is one of the nicest, friendliest people I have ever met, and has nothing but good to say about all those who he encountered in his enforced wanderings. He also had a plastic bag, and was on crutches. He is now in hospital, having become terribly ill as a result.

I want Paradzai to know that there are many of us, and that we welcome her, and if we can help her in any way, we will. Above all, don’t despair.

Madeline Church

London

• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com

• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters