As South Africa transitions to level four, Edenvale has awoken with residents coming out of their homes to travel to work and purchase goods.
Despite the revival of activity, Ward 18 Clr Heather Hart said the lockdown affected Edenvale enormously as residents were forced to stay indoors and businesses shut down.
“Edenvale has been extremely compliant, with residents making sacrifices to allow the government to take appropriate steps,” said Hart.
“Government needs to treat its citizens with respect.”
Hart said she was impressed by the behaviour of residents of Edenvale, which she described as exemplary.
“In central Edenvale issues of overcrowding make it harder for compliance, but this is understandable.”
Hart explained that since the start of level four she has noticed an increase in activity in Edenvale.
“There are more cars on the roads, parking lots are full, you would almost say things are back to normal, but people are still at home.”
Despite the sense of normality, Hart said she and Rundle have received many requests for assistance for food from the community.
Because of these requests, a feeding programme was started by Edenvale Help Forum with the assistance of Tabitha house and donations from the community.
“The food parcels are not designed to feed a family for an extended period, but are intended to provide temporary relief.”
In Hart’s opinion, the government did not think through the effects of lockdown on vulnerable communities even vaguely adequately.
She said the situation is hardest on foreign nationals as they have no family to call on for assistance and are really on their own.
With exercising now allowed, Hart encouraged community members to take pride in their surrounding areas and neighbourhoods.
“While walking, residents should pick up pieces of paper and other debris on the streets and pavements.
“Giving some tender love and care to Edenvale while exercising will make an enormous difference.”
