Vagrants staying in the CBD on the corner of Main Reef Road and Edwin Road near a fast food restaurant chain have become a thorn in the side of some residents.
They are also causing a health hazard for not only residents but businesses as well.
Resident Anthony Fouche who lives nearby, said that while he understands some vagrants are without any form of shelter, they are causing a health hazard and are increasing the criminal element in his area.
“We understand that they are homeless and it is probably somehow beyond their control but it would be great for the municipality to assist in some way. This is because homeless people are ignoring municipal bylaws and sleeping on the sidewalks and at times relieving themselves. This is disturbing for us residents and I’m sure businesses share the same sentiments,” said Fouche who urged the municipality to come forward and offer a helping hand.
Speaking to the Herald, Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa said placement of people in a shelter is voluntary.
“Placement to the shelter is voluntary. Most of the homeless people do not want to be placed in the shelters because they make money on the streets as car guards and washing cars,” said Montshiwa.
He added that they have a social services unit which refers homeless people to the Department of Social Development (DSD) which is responsible for funding shelters to accommodate the homeless vagrants.
But before being placed in a shelter, a homeless person needs to first be referred to a statutory social worker and then sent in for medical assessments.
This is to check if he/ she uses any illegal substances.
“After the interventions we do, if a homeless person is found to be on any illegal substance, they will then be referred to a rehabilitation centre before being placed in a shelter. They also need to have their mental state checked because there are some shelters which do not have capacity to cater for patients with mental issues.
“It is only then that they can be placed in a shelter, where they are provided with skills to go back to the community. Reunification services are also done with their families where possible,” said Montshiwa.
