…By Joseph Benjamin for TDPel Media. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has recently revealed plans to collaborate with non-profit organizations (NPOs) in order to increase the capacity of homeless shelters by 300 beds for the upcoming winter season.
The initiative aims to provide better support and accommodation to individuals living on the streets.
Winter Readiness Programme: Supporting Vulnerable Groups
The Winter Readiness Programme, an essential component of Cape Town’s social support system for vulnerable groups, will be implemented to alleviate the hardships faced by the homeless during winter.
This program demonstrates the city’s commitment to addressing the needs of its most marginalized citizens.
Financial Allocation and Social Development Budget:
The City of Cape Town has allocated R94.75 million for its Street People program in the 2023/24 fiscal year.
This amount represents a significant 23% increase from the previous year, making Cape Town the only metropolitan area with a dedicated social development budget aimed at assisting people in transitioning off the streets.
Collaboration with Non-Profit Organizations
Four registered non-profit organizations – Ubuntu Circle of Courage, U-Turn, TASP, and the Haven Night Shelter – have been selected by the city through an application process for the provision of winter aid.
Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) are being signed with these organizations, collectively adding 294 temporary bed spaces across different locations in the metropole.
Provision of Resources:
In addition to expanding bed capacity, the city will supply the selected shelters with essential resources such as non-perishable food, cleaning materials, hygiene packs, mattresses, linen, and blankets.
These provisions will contribute to ensuring the well-being and comfort of those seeking refuge.
Employment of EPWP Workers:
To support the operations of the non-profit organizations, the city will deploy 184 workers through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
These workers will assist with general administrative tasks and help lighten the workload during the winter season.
Commentary:
The announcement by Mayor Hill-Lewis reflects the city’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being and dignity of homeless individuals.
By collaborating with NPOs and increasing the social development budget, Cape Town is taking concrete steps towards providing effective support and resources to help people transition off the streets.
Expansion Plans:
The City of Cape Town plans to invest R230 million over the next three years to expand and manage its own Safe Space transitional shelters.
These shelters, which currently provide approximately 700 beds in the CBD and Bellville, offer various social interventions to aid individuals in reintegrating into society.
The proposed 300-bed safe space in Green Point is currently under review, with public comments being considered.
Acknowledgment and Future Efforts:
Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, expressed gratitude to the NGO sector for their tireless work and ongoing partnership.
The Winter Readiness programme is just one of the city’s initiatives aimed at assisting vulnerable groups.
The Street People Programme Unit, responsible for facilitating access to social developmental services, relocation to shelters, and social outreach interventions, has already engaged with over 2,700 individuals living on the streets in March 2023 alone.
Conclusion:
The City of Cape Town’s Winter Readiness programme, along with its ongoing efforts through the Street People Programme Unit, demonstrates its commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals.
By providing additional shelter beds, resources, and employment opportunities, the city aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.