Knysna Municipality provides a home to the homeless during lockdown
While Knysna, and the rest of South Africa, are homebound during the nationwide Covid-19 lockdown, Knysna Municipality are helping those without homes of their own to stay safe. Executive Deputy Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa said that the municipality had made provisions to look after the homeless.
“We are accommodating the homeless of Sedgefield and Knysna at Loerie Park for the duration of the lockdown,” said Tsengwa. “With the women and children housed in the clubhouse and the men lodged in tents, we have already reached our capacity of 85 residents. They are under lockdown as per the same regulations as any other citizen and are not allowed to roam outside. At least they can now do so with a roof over their heads, access to adequate ablution facilities and the prospect of enjoying a regular meal.”
“We asked for donations and the response has been overwhelming. Thank you to the residents of Knysna – you have once again shown how a community can come together to support their most vulnerable members.”
Donations varied and included beds, bedding, soap, facecloths, towels, toothbrushes, fruit and non-perishable food. “We are very grateful for any and all support and donations, but please note that we are NOT asking for monetary donations,” Tsengwa continued. “It is also important that all donations are channelled through the municipality and occur in a controlled manner. To adhere to lockdown regulations and curb the spread of the coronavirus, we will collect donations. Please do not make any deliveries to Loerie Park, the Fire Station or any other place.”
“There is a silver lining to the Covid-19 cloud for these people,” Tsengwa explained. The new residents of Loerie Park were visited by hospital staff where they were screened for various illnesses including TB, HIV and diabetes. “Those who were diagnosed with illnesses that require chronic medication are now back in the system and will receive the necessary medicines on a regular basis.”
“We thank all our partners in this endeavour,” he concluded. “Especially the South African Red Cross Society and various local churches for assisting in preparing meals for these members of our community. And, once again, the people of Knysna who are always willing to give what they are able to – even in a time when everyone is under pressure.”