Stellenbosch Municipality released a statement earlier today recognising the need to accommodate and make provision for the health of the town’s homeless community.
“Stellenbosch Municipality continues its efforts as a caring government during this lockdown period. In accordance with the measures announced by President Ramaphosa, the Municipality is working with other partners to provide and care for the homeless in our region.
Limiting the movement of people is key in stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this lockdown period, it is important that our homeless residents also receive protection and care.
The municipality is therefore setting up a temporary facility for the duration of this lockdown to accommodate and shelter homeless people within our municipal boundaries. This will provide homeless people of the Stellenbosch municipal region (WC024) with a safe space.
Homeless residents in Franschhoek, Stellenbosch & Klapmuts will be taken to this temporary camp where they will be screened for health or mental health issues. If necessary, people will be taken to Stellenbosch Provincial Hospital for observation & necessary medical attention.
Our law enforcement officers are working closely with SAPS and other government institutions to ensure lockdown procedures are adhered to. Please report any non-compliance to your local SAPS. We can beat COVID-19 by working together.”
Mayor Van Deventer outlined the essential steps taken by the municipality in accordance with the President’s decision to declare a national state of disaster and said:
“Every decision we make is in the interest of public health and safety. We will continue to work with our national and provincial partners to ensure that measures are in place to curb the spread of the virus. Limiting physical and social contact is essential in curbing the spread of the virus. I therefore urge residents to help us curb the spread of the virus by doing the following:
- Social distancing is imperative – keep a distance of at least 1 meter between you and the next person, especially in public spaces; do not shake hands or hug when greeting one another, minimize physical contact.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Sanitize your hands and surfaces with an effective sanitizing product.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw it away after use
- Take additional vitamins to boost your immune system
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