Finding sustainable solutions to help those in need

The Western Cape Government (WCG) is no longer proceeding with the proposed Hope Exchange Shelter development on the old Tafelberg creche property. The decision follows, in part, due to objections from community members in District Six. The allocated funds for the shelter will now be used to assist with the equivalent expansion of bed spaces for homeless adults at various NGO-run shelters both within the City of Cape Town and in other parts of the province.

This decision to allocate funding to existing NGOs in this sector is in keeping with our commitment to care for the most vulnerable in society and give them the opportunity to get support and critical rehabilitative services in a dignified and safe environment.

While the Hope Exchange Shelter was a promising initiative to address the increasing number of people living on the streets, the alternative approach will allow the department to benefit an equal or greater number of homeless adults.

Since the COVID-19 disaster, the provincial Department of Social Development has provided funding for social workers at all shelters to help with the reunification of homeless adults with their families and has increased access to shelter bed spaces funded by the Department from 1500 to 2398.

With this latest allocation this figure will further increase to 2584 which is over and above shelter spaces funded by the City of Cape Town and other municipalities across the province.