GOOD Press Statement by Suzette Little,
GOOD Deputy Secretary General
10 October 2024
The GOOD party calls on government to create meaningful, long-term change for the homeless population. How a government treats its most vulnerable is a direct reflection of its humanity. We need urgent, comprehensive action to address the systemic issues facing those living on the streets or in shelters.
Today, the 10th of October marks World Homeless Day.
According to Statistics South Africa there are over 55,000 homeless people in the country (Census 2022). With Gauteng accounting for almost half of the country’s homeless population. Tshwane recorded the highest proportion of homeless persons followed by Johannesburg and then Cape Town.
It is important to note that these numbers could also be higher than reported due to the self-admitted ‘higher-than-ideal observed levels of undercount’ by Stats SA.
As a country we have failed the most vulnerable of society.
We need to change the narrative and the understanding of the massive challenge at hand, instead of presenting those on the streets as drug addicts and criminals.
It is clear from the Stats SA research that the number one reason for homelessness is job loss or no income. With over 30% of the country unemployed, the harsh reality is we are all closer to life on the streets than we realise.
We need to harness the power of a functional government for the benefit of those who need government the most.
In 2014/2015, as City of Cape Town Mayco member of Social and Early childhood development, I commissioned a comprehensive survey on homelessness.
The primary aim was to understand the lived experiences, challenges, and needs of those living on the streets. The survey revealed critical information regarding the systemic barriers preventing the homeless population from accessing housing and rehabilitation services.
This assessment highlighted the following key factors contributing to homelessness:
• A lack of affordable housing, particularly in well-located areas near employment opportunities.
• Insufficient shelters, especially those capable of accommodating families, the elderly, and individuals with mental health challenges.
• Unacceptable living conditions in many shelters, which are perceived by homeless individuals as inhumane.
• A limited number of rehabilitation programs designed to support individuals in their transition from the streets to stable living environments.
The survey culminated in the city of Cape Town’s first and only homeless conference, which brought together key stakeholders and representatives of the homeless community to discuss sustainable solutions. A central theme of the conference was the importance of direct engagement with the homeless in formulating policy and intervention strategies. Unfortunately, while the conference was an essential first step, many of the issues identified remain unresolved.
As GOOD we are urging government, not just the city of Cape Town, to include the homeless community in the decision-making processes to ensure strategies, policies and solutions are effective and practical.
By focusing on rehabilitation, reintegration, improved shelter conditions, and stakeholder engagement, we can ensure that our country reflects the values of compassion and humanity that define a just and equitable society.
Media Enquiries:
Suzette Little, GOOD Deputy Secretary General
Cell: 073 321 5036
Email: suzettel@forgood.org.za
Samantha Jackson, GOOD: Media Manager
Cell: 083 5509875
Email: samantha@forgood.org.za