The programme runs from 29 April to 31 October this year.

It gives the City the opportunity to support organisations that provide shelter for street people by supplementing their available resources to enable more indigent people to benefit from the services offered by these organisations.

Organisations which are able to provide additional temporary mattress space during the winter period and who meet the stipulated criteria, will receive food parcels, toiletries, mattresses and bedding as well as Expanded Public Works Programme workers to assist with cooking and cleaning.

‘The Winter Readiness Programme is designed to build capacity and help organisations create extra bed space. During winter, the cold drives more people to seek sanctuary from the elements. The aid we provide allows for more people to be safe and warm when the weather is at its harshest,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

Partner organisations will not be expected to create permanent accommodation.

Criteria for participating organisations are:

‘I want to encourage all shelters to apply for the programme. You care for some of the most vulnerable residents and the City wants to assist in that care and help you get even more people off the street. The City does all it can to help people off the street permanently, but with the help of shelters, we can ensure they’re inside during bad weather spells,’ said Councillor Van der Ross.

Application forms are available at www.capetown.gov.za/readyforwinter and complete forms must by submitted by 16:00 on 8 March 2024.