The City of Cape Town has committed 87 million rand to
strengthen its efforts to support people experiencing homelessness across the
city.
The funding will go towards the operation of Safe Spaces,
street outreach programmes, winter shelter services and temporary work
opportunities through support initiatives aimed at helping vulnerable residents
move off the streets.
The city says its Street People Programme has made progress over the past year, screening more than 10,000 people and conducting thousands of follow-up visits to connect individuals with available assistance. More than 2,100 people were placed in shelters, while others were reunited with their families.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health,
Francine Higham, says addressing homelessness requires more than providing
emergency shelter. She says the investment will help expand access to
healthcare, social services, accommodation and opportunities that allow people
to rebuild their lives.
The city’s approach includes working with non-governmental
organisations, outreach teams and support centres to provide services such as
assistance with identity documents, social grants, family reunification,
substance abuse treatment access, skills training and employment support.
The City says the funding forms part of its continued
commitment to creating a more effective and people-centred response to
homelessness while ensuring that those in need can access support and pathways
towards a more stable future.
Done by: Nia Damoense
Comments