Homeless in Cape Town

Homeless in Cape Town

We, like many of our readers, encounter these situations regularly. No matter how we react, we often feel we’re not doing the right thing.

If we give nothing, we feel guilty—especially after we've just enjoyed a meal ourselves. However, giving doesn't seem to solve the issue either. We’ll discuss a potential solution for this dilemma later, but first, let’s start from the beginning.

How many people are we talking about?

Estimating the issue is complicated, as recent figures range from 6,000 to 14,000 individuals.

What drives so many people onto the streets?

The root causes are complex and varied. Major factors include economic inequality, unemployment, migration, addiction, untreated mental health issues, and a significant shortage of affordable housing.

Is anyone doing anything to help these individuals?

Yes, numerous organizations and the City of Cape Town have made this issue a top priority. They are committed to providing alternatives for those living on the streets, known as "shelters," which offer sleeping spaces, basic sanitation, and food.

Several organizations addressing these needs include:

The Haven Welfare Organisation, First Floor, 2 Napier Street, Cape Town. Phone: 021 425 4700. They coordinate up to 20 Haven Night Shelters in the Western Cape.

Salvation Army, 85 Maynard Road, Wynberg, Cape Town. Phone: 021 761 8530. They focus on food distribution and school feeding programs and are deeply committed to combating human trafficking.

The Haven Night Shelter – District Six, 20 Selkirk Street, Woodstock. They provide beds, sanitation, and meals while supporting the integration of the homeless.

The Hope Exchange, 14a Roeland Street, Cape Town. Phone: 021046105508. They offer beds and social support to assist the homeless.

The Secret Love Project, Cape Town provides opportunities for the marginalized to earn through selling heart stickers.

Somerset West Night Shelter, 71 Church Street, Somerset West. Phone: 021 851 4984. During the pandemic, improvements were made here to assist the needy.

Does it help if we hand out money from our car windows?

All organizations we spoke to agree that handouts from tourists undermine the efforts of the city. Our direct generosity keeps people on the streets and often attracts new ones. The money is frequently used for drugs or alcohol, complicating the existing issues.

What can we do instead?

The city and organizations strongly advise giving donations to shelters in the area rather than directly to individuals. Vouchers that can be exchanged for shelter and meals are advisable.

As crusaders for South African wine, we've created an option for you to order these vouchers in our shop.

We’ve purchased these vouchers and are passing them on to you at no extra cost. It's the least we can do for those in need.