Department of Social Development rolls out its Winter Readiness Programme

The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) is rolling out its Winter Readiness Programme, in partnership with a number of stakeholders, in order to provide vital assistance to vulnerable people living in the province.

Winter has set in with temperatures plummeting and widespread showers across the Western Cape, which has increased the demand for shelter services.

The department’s Winter Readiness Programme prioritises the homeless by providing R12 815 459 through the Children and Families Programme funding to 24 shelters, which provide 1358 beds each day.

In addition to the provision of shelter, the Department, in partnership with the City of Cape Town’s Social Development unit, Disaster Risk Management, and the Community Chest is providing additional mattress space, food, blankets and toiletries   to vulnerable citizens over the winter period.

Furthermore, the department is also providing support to a number of NGO’s in order for them to provide mattresses, food, and care packs to the poor.

The Sustainable Livelihoods Program funds a total of 55 targeted feeding sites. Access to these sites is via the Department of Health and following an assessment by a registered social worker.

Social workers and Community Development Practitioners located at the 6 regional offices of the department are readily available to provide needed and appropriate social welfare and community development interventions.

We believe that the onset of winter should not mean that the destitute must suffer from the cold, harsh weather.

Our efforts as government are most effective when we work in partnership with NGOs and communities. The public is encouraged to get involved through volunteering or donating to registered NGOs operating in the province. Information on registered NGOs can be obtained by visiting any of our regional and local offices, or by contacting our DSD hotline 0800 220 250.