A home for the displaced in Windsor
WINDSOR – The Windsor West Assessment Centre now houses about 60 displaced people during the Covid-19 lockdown.
After the country went on lockdown to stop the spread of Covid-19, the Windsor West Assessment Centre was identified to act as temporary shelter for displaced persons residing in Region B.
Ward 98 councillor Beverly Weweje explained the centre unfortunately does not meet the demands of beds to the ratio of displaced persons living within the region. “The City, in conjunction with Mary Gillett-de Klerk from the Johannesburg Homeless Network, is actively working at acquiring more facilities.”
Weweje added that the function of the temporary shelter is to provide the displaced persons with meals, access to showers, water, soap, minimal health care and screening. “The shelter has currently reached its maximum bed capacity of 60 beds, with Saps, JMPD and referrals from communities.
“It looked like an insurmountable and daunting task as we looked at the empty shelter as the first displaced person arrived accompanied by Fairland SAPS.” But, they immediately sprang into action as she knew the only way they would be able to provide some semblance of order, would be to call on the residents of Ward 98 and adjacent wards. The response they received from the residents is said to have been unbelievable.
Some of the community’s most loved non-profits and charity organisation made sure to give to the centre. Felicity Gratz-Lawlor of Let’s Work gave countless donations provided by the residents of Ward 88. Kelly-Ann van der Meer from One Act of Kindness not only provided resources like blankets, food, toiletries, and more but her time as well, diligently serving, ensuring each displaced person had a place to sleep and assisting in emergencies.
67 Blankets for Mandela provided 40 blankets. Whilst Trevor Webster from Doorway to Dignity, showed an insurmountable understanding and big brother guidance as he assisted with kitchen duty and resources. “The displaced persons completely overwhelmed me in taking charge of household chores in an orderly manner, showing that they were not there for handouts, but hand-ups,” shared Weweje.
She concluded that the shelter was up and running within two days, with the assistance of private stakeholders and the cooperation of the displaced persons. Now, the Department of Social Development takes the reins, “We trust that they will be good stewards and build on the foundation that has been set.”
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