GEORGE NEWS - A joint stakeholder meeting is scheduled for Monday 27 May to discuss the plight of the homeless.
The meeting will take place at the George Civic Centre in the banquet hall at 10:00. All business owners, organi-sations, departments and members of the public who wish to participate are welcome to attend.
According to municipal spokesperson Chantel Edwards-Klose, the George Council recognises homeless people as those who reside in places not meant for human habitation, such as parks, cars, sidewalks and abandoned buildings.
She said a social challenge like this can only be addressed by implementing an integrated approach, involving all the relevant municipal departments and external partners.
Portfolio Councillor for Community Development and Social Services, Sean Snyman, said the plight of the homeless is not something that can be ignored. "However, it is a fight that needs to be approached in a holistic manner - hence the call for all stakeholders in George to attend a meeting where they can participate in developing a way forward," said Snyman.
"This is a team effort and needs to be approached in a sensitive but sensible manner."
Database for homeless
According to Edwards-Klose, the municipal database for homeless people currently lists 22 people, with regular surveys to update this database.
She said these people are genuinely homeless and don't have family in George. The number excludes those who stay at the Night Shelter and varies as people move in and out of George. "Over the past 12 months a total of 11 homeless persons have received employment opportunities at municipal departments, in positions for water distribution, street and storm water, residential cleaning and as peer educators. Those that actively seek employment are assisted with clothing, toiletries and an application for the replacement of their identity documentation."
The department has assisted by sending 26 Curriculum Vitae to different companies in application of positions, and annually runs a winter soup drive with 53 cups of soup provided per night over a three-month period.
A support group has been established for women who sleep at the Night Shelter, offering arts and crafts lessons.
Women's Day is celebrated in such a way as to encourage self-worth amongst homeless women.
For enquiries on the Homeless Stakeholders Meeting, please contact Estelle Fredericks on 044 802 2000/2015 during office hours (08:00-16:30).
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