CoCT opens new safe space shelter in Durbanville to combat homelessness
Homelessness has presented an ongoing challenge for the city with an estimated 14,000 people currently living on the streets.
Bunk beds at the new Durbanville Safe Space homeless shelter. Picture: @geordinhl/X
CAPE TOWN – The City of Cape Town has opened a new safe space shelter in Durbanville to help homeless people in the area get off the streets.
Homelessness has presented an ongoing challenge for the city, with an estimated 14,000 people currently living on the streets.
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the city would spend over R220 million to expand shelters over the next three years.
Hill-Lewis said the new Durbanville safe space, based at the public transport interchange, would add an extra 40 beds to the area, along with an existing safe space that provides 220 beds.
"The City Safe Spaces Programme offers social programmes to assist people off the streets sustainably, reintegrate them into society, and reunite them with family.
"Personal development planning and employment opportunities are made available, alongside referrals for mental health, medical, and substance abuse treatment," Hill-Lewis added.