Community Chest urges Capetonians to open their hearts

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Lorenzo Davids, CEO of the Community Chest of the Western Cape, says the immediate issue remained the shortage of beds for the needy in the temporary shelters. "Providing temporary shelter is part of a comprehensive and rehabilitative care programme, but it is the essential first step in the process. And it needs the support of all stakeholders."

To date, the Community Chest has collected and distributed a record amount of donations and goods in kind, including R450,000 in essential items for the homeless from the City of Cape Town. This has brought relief to more than 260 people currently staying in shelters, with more than 200 blankets and mattresses and a large quantity of food and toiletries distributed from its warehouse.

The Community Chest, together with the City of Cape Town, has offered assistance to organisations working with the homeless and opportunities to increase their capacity to help the needy this winter.

Davids has also appealed to the public to give responsibly this season. "Winter is a busy time of the year for us," he says. "We call upon all Capetonians to open their hearts and actively help to keep our people warm."