Brakpan’s homeless sheltered

The Democratic Alliance in Ekurhuleni is delighted the homeless of Brakpan, among others, now have a safe place to stay during the lockdown.

The lockdown came into effect on March 27, but for the homeless in Brakpan there was no clear directive as to what would happen to them.

Still roaming the streets the following day, residents of the town were concerned with mixed feelings.

“I am glad to announce that last week Thursday (April 2), after lots of confusion, the City of Ekurhuleni sent busses and collected approximately 90 homeless people from Brakpan and transported them to the Bakerton Community Hall in Springs as a central point identified by the municipality for the homeless within the surrounding areas,” said Brandon Pretorius, DA councillor for Ward 97 in Brakpan.

Pretorius told the Herald he visited the hall on Friday morning and was welcomed by representatives from the Department of Social Development.

“I was surprised by the work being done to ensure maximum comfort for those placed there despite the circumstances,” he said.

“Upon their arrival, people were briefed and educated about the rules and were educated about Covid-19 and how to contain the spread.”

“Thereafter, interviews were conducted to see how assistance can be provided to each individual’s needs.

“An opportunity will also be given to those wanting further assistance beyond the lockdown, such as wanting to go to rehabilitation centres.

“Each person received a blanket, a mattress and some clothes, and obviously food.”

Pretorius explained he was, however, disheartened that some people were refusing assistance.

Read: Inperking sorg vir swaarkry, tog is daar dié wat steeds gee

“I was discouraged to hear that after all these efforts, some of the homeless, more specifically homeless people from Brakpan, forcefully left the hall on Friday morning with the items given to them,” he said.

“Some were even trying to sell the blankets and mattresses to community members of Bakerton as they made their way back to Brakpan.

“It should be made clear that local authorities have been informed and that each person who was accommodated is accounted for, and if found to be roaming the streets they will be arrested as per the lockdown rules.”

Pretorius appealed to residents who are aware of homeless individuals wanting to go the hall to contact him.

“The SAPS and EMPD will also escort individuals as and when required,” he said.

“It is in the best interest of each homeless person to go to the shelter.”

Pretorius thanked the community of Brakpan and Bakerton for donations during this time.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all other individuals and organisations within Brakpan and encourage those who can to please assist where possible,” he said.

“It is important to also realise there are some individuals, who are not necessarily homeless, but still in need.

“Anyone in need can gladly contact me.”

Pretorius can be contacted on 083 308 7821.

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