Cape Town: The city has extended winter support for 10 shelters for the homeless. The Community, Arts and Culture Development (CACD) Department of the City of Cape Town will provide goods and services valued at R1.2 million to 10 NGO shelters this winter.
The initiative was taken with the purpose to help them cope with the increased demand for their services. The Winter Readiness Programme is one of the many city interventions to assist persons living on the street.
Reportedly, it is a R1 million budget that will go towards acquiring and distributing essentials like blankets, mattresses, food items, hygiene items and cleaning aids to qualifying and considerable shelters.
Additionally, allocation of nearly R230,000 has been made through the Expanded Public Works Programme to assist the shelters with temporary staffing facility, with operational support and administrative tasks assigned over the period.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that the winter places enormous strain on shelters as demand for warm beds and basic care increases, especially during the storms.
By working with the NGO partners on a comprehensive response, contribution by the City of Cape Town has reduced the pressure on qualifying NGOs and has increased their capacity to help more people.
Moreover, the primary aim of the initiative is to provide a safe, dry space for those in need, the shelters are also equipped to provide more longer-term interventions designed to help people off the street for good.
Higham highlighted that they are looking forward to work with the partners this year, and hope that they are able to expand the reach even further next year. The programme started on May 08, 2025 and will conclude on October 30, 2025.
Notably, the applicants had to follow the strict criteria such as being registered as an NPO or PBO, that has existing facilities to accommodate clients and address their needs through developmental programmes, complying with all health and safety regulations, also agreeing to site inspections by the Fire and Rescue Service of the City of Cape Town and the Environmental Health Department.