Temporary shelters for homeless people in Ladysmith to prevent Covid-19
Homeless people have been encouraged to move to temporary shelters during the Covid-19 lockdown, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa
Today (March 28) is the second day of the lockdown aimed at preventing the spread of Covid-19 (coronavirus).
Homeless people have been encouraged to move to temporary shelters during the Covid-19 lockdown, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The president mentioned in his address that temporary shelters must be identified to accommodate homeless people for at least 21 days.
In Ladysmith, the Operation Sukuma Sakhe District Task Team, with the assistance of the Department of Social Development (DSD), met with stakeholders to deliberate on this matter and identified places for the homeless to be accommodated during the lockdown.
Also read: Ladysmith police say people need to obey the lockdown rules
The following places in the Ladysmith area have been identified as temporary shelters for homeless people: Alfred Duma Local Municipality – Utility Hall, Agra Crescent Civic Centre and Limit Hill Hall; Okhahlamba – DSD Centre, Woodford, Acton Homes and Bethany Halls.
Stakeholders have been assigned with various tasks and responsibilities, as follows: SAPS – to provide safety and security; DSD – essential needs such as clothes, blankets and food parcels; the Al-Imdaad Foundation has already provided sponges; NGOs, NPOs and the business sector will provide meals.
An appeal is made to anyone else to assist with whatever they can provide.
All local municipalities have complied with the requirements, and will avail these shelters and maintain hygienic conditions. The Department of Health will be doing health screening services to ensure that thorough check-ups are conducted, including tests for Covid-19.
Awareness campaigns regarding the pandemic will be conducted on an ongoing basis.
Male and female occupants will be separated in the shelters.
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