WC Social Development moves forward with new shelter for homeless citizens

The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) has allocated R4.5 million over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) to establish a new shelter for homeless citizens at the former Robbie Nurock Clinic located in Cape Town, set to be operational by the end of the 2022/23 financial year.

Once the former Robbie Nurock Clinic has been refurbished and opened, the facility will be able to accommodate up to 100 residents at any given time. Furthermore, the respective facility will be managed by a suitable Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) partner, which the Department is in the process of identifying.

“I am pleased that we are moving forward with this much-needed project, which looks to expand the existing network for safe spaces for homeless citizens living in the Western Cape,” said the Western Cape Minister for Social Development, Sharna Fernandez.

“We remain committed to ensuring that shelter services are delivered in ways that help homeless citizens gain access to essential and basic social services that promote their dignity and well-being,” added Minister Fernandez.

The provincial DSD collaborates with local governments, Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) and related institutions to provide shelters and reintegration services for people who find themselves on the streets.

DSD also provides norms and standards to help funded shelters operate in ways that help people living on the streets have their basic needs met and help them reintegrate with their families and communities.

The individuals who use the shelter services also have access to other services rendered by the DSD. Where possible, shelters assist clients in accessing medical services and ID documentation applications.

During the COVID pandemic, the Western Cape Department of Social Development has increased the number of bed spaces for homeless citizens that it funds from 1500 to 2499. Moreover, additional social worker posts are also funded at all shelters that the department partners with to aid with reintegration and support the residents.

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 our regional and local offices or contacting our DSD hotline at 0800 220 250.