As torrential rains continue to batter Cape Town U-turn Homeless Ministries has ramped-up emergency efforts to assist the growing number of homeless individuals seeking urgent shelter and relief from the cold.
The city’s ongoing weather crisis has resulted in a sharp increase in people arriving at U-turn facilities in search of warmth, food and protection from the harsh conditions. In response, the organisation has activated additional accommodation and support to meet the heightened need.
“When the weather turns severe the need on the streets grows rapidly,” said Jean-Ray Knighton-Fitt, CEO of U-turn. “We want to respond, and with the public’s help we can.”
U-turn, which primarily focuses on long-term rehabilitation and reintegration for people experiencing homelessness, has shifted some of its capacity towards immediate, life-saving interventions as the winter storm stretches resources across the metro.
“This emergency effort is possible only through media coverage, faith-based partnerships and public generosity,” Knighton Fitt added.
U-turn appeals to Cape Town residents to support the relief effort by donating either financially or in kind. Urgently-needed items include warm clothing (especially small to medium sizes for men), non-perishable foods, stewing meat, long-life milk, tea, coffee, sugar, toilet paper, blankets and yoga mats.
Donations can be delivered to the U-turn Head Office at 155 Second Avenue, Kenilworth. The drop-off point will remain open from 08:30 to 21:00 until Friday 27 June, and from 08:00 to 12:00 on Saturday 28 June.
Financial contributions can be made via the U-turn website at homeless.org.za/donate, which helps fund both immediate needs and longer-term rehabilitation work.
As cold fronts continue to sweep across the region U-turn’s appeal serves as a reminder of the fragility and urgency of life on the streets, for those without shelter, during one of the harshest winters the city has seen in years.
