The CCID and Taj Cape Town joint forces last week with Youth Solutions Africa and other NGOs who assist people in the CBD in recognition of World Homeless Day on 10 October 2013.
An event was held for the CBD’s homeless community at the St George’s Cathedral hall where, among other facilities on offer on the day, entertainment and a meal were provided.
Says Pat Eddy, manager of the CCID’s Social Development department: “Overall it was a great success, well attended by the community. Our biggest thanks on the day go to Taj Cape Town. When I contacted Devon Labuschagne, HR manager at the hotel, to see if there was any chance Taj Cape Town could sponsor a meal, there was no hesitation. The Taj team, with Devon and his colleague Candice Khan at the helm together with a number of their catering staff, came out in force on the day and not only provided a delicious biriyani lunch for 200 people but the polystyrene containers and forks necessary to serve that number.”
With the event itself being the brainchild of John Philmon of Youth Solutions Africa, who provided volunteers and cool drink for the event, the venue was organised by the CCID, who also suggested the day be partnered in conjunction with a number of NGOS such as The Carpenter Shop and Service Dining Rooms “who also render vital services to people living on the streets of the Central City,” says Pat.
The Carpenter’s Shop made their ablution facilities available at 07h00 on the morning so that clients could have a shower and obtain clean clothes where necessary, and the Service Dining Rooms provided a breakfast of porridge and coffee. The Robbie Nurock Community Clinic provided voluntary HIV/Aids testing for those who wanted to know their status, while a number of other NGOS including Salesians Institute Youth Solutions, the Scalabrini Centre, the District Six Haven, Percy Bartley House and Mamelani Projects loaned chairs.
Says Pat: “It makes such a difference to a day like this when businesses in town support it with such an open heart. Taj Cape Town regularly make donations to us of bed linen and clothing, but this was a particularly big ‘ask’ and they went the extra mile. From all the NGOs involved in the day, we thank them and all those who participated with us to show that as a CBD we really do care.”
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Main image: The CCID and its partners acknowledge World Homeless Day at St George’s Cathedral.