As WC prepares for another cold front, Drakenstein Municipality opens shelter for homeless
Senior social development officer at Drakenstein Municipality, Geduld Veldsman, said the facility could accommodate 26 individuals each evening.
FILE: A homeless person sleeping on a bench. Picture: Chaivit Chana / 123rf
CAPE TOWN - As the Western Cape prepares for yet another cold front this weekend, shelters across the province are preparing for an influx of people in need.
The Drakenstein Municipality has announced the opening of the Paarl Overnight shelter.
Along with faith-based outreach initiative CRC Cares, it has now made a space available for the homeless.
Senior social development officer at Drakenstein Municipality, Geduld Veldsman, said the facility could accommodate 26 individuals each evening.
"Although this falls out of our municipal mandate, the reality is that vulnerable individuals living on the streets through our social development section which engage with some of the most vulnerable members of our community, we recognise the urgent need to respond. Providing shelter is not just about offering a bed it's about restoring dignity of a hope and showing compassion."
Veldsman added that the CRC Cares initiative would manage the shelter's daily operations.
"Residents of the Paarl Overnight shelter will receive a warm meal, their own bed, blankets, access to comprehensive support services, this includes social service, as well as physical and emotional support."