The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (Seri) celebrates a triumph that reaffirms the voices and dignity of many of Cape Town’s unhoused.
Also read: 2-week extension granted for eviction of Cape Town homeless
Approximately 150 individuals are set to be provided with alternate accommodation at the City’s Ebenezer Safe Space 3 and the Culemborg Safe Space 2.
Safe Space 2 and 3 have been provided as alternatives to Culemborg Safe Space 1, which was deemed to be unacceptable, deplorable and inhabitable.
This action treads on the heels of the mandated eviction of the homeless by 31 July.
The date was later extended by two weeks, following variations to the order granted by the Western Cape High Court.
Seri has deemed the newly allocated areas to be ‘adequate and dignified human habitation Safe Spaces.’
Low winter temperatures and the expectation of consistent rainfall were two factors that prompted Seri to launch the application, according to IOL.
In addition, the regulations for the Safe Spaces have been amended.
The daytime lockout rule has been excluded and residency, which extends beyond six months, has been permitted for those unable to secure different accommodation.
The success has been described as ‘an important positive development bolstering a victory for the voices of the unhoused.’
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Picture: Jaco Marais / Gallo Images