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OUDTSHOORN NEWS - As part of its ongoing community outreach, the Oudtshoorn Infantry School has successfully completed a comprehensive refurbishment project at Ithemba House, a local shelter for the homeless in Oudtshoorn.
The transformation, made possible by dedicated fundraising efforts, has expanded the shelter's capacity, enabling it to accommodate up to 52 individuals in need.
The refurbishment, valued at R1 250 000 included the purchase of new beds, furniture, bedding and electrical appliances.
Lieutenant General Lawrence Khulekani Mbatha and Colonel Tiisetso Sekgobela represented the South African Army at the unveiling.
Major Ipi Stanley Thovhakale, project officer, discussed the initiative with Oudtshoorn Courant: "The project began in April after meetings with stakeholders, including mayor Johan Allers. All work was done by military personnel, with funds from Army Foundation sponsors."
The project improved the shelter's infrastructure by renovating two administrative offices, four dormitories, kitchen, living room and several bathrooms. In addition, a new building with its own ablution facilities was constructed for men, allowing male and female residents to live separately for the first time. The grounds were landscaped and ten trees were planted at the unveiling.
Jan Ayford, manager of the facility, expressed his gratitude for the support.
"Thanks to the efforts of the Oudtshoorn Infantry School, we are now able to house 52 individuals on a three-month rotational basis.
We have a social worker who pro-vides ongoing support to our residents. We are incredibly thankful to the Infantry School for choosing Ithemba shelter as their annual outreach project.
They have completely transformed the facility, upgrading everything from electrical outlets and doors to floors, paint, beds, mattresses and bedding. Their efforts have truly made Ithemba Shelter a welcoming, homely environment for those in need."
Ayford added that, beyond providing shelter, Ithemba House offers its residents three nutritious meals daily. "Our mission is to help people experiencing homelessness by offering them not only a roof over their heads but also the care and direction they need to rebuild their lives."
This refurbishment marks a significant milestone in the shelter's ability to assist the local homeless community, and underscores the commitment of the Oudtshoorn Infantry School to supporting those in need.
"We currently have 24 residents, but over the years, many homeless individuals have passed through our doors on their way to a more stable and hopeful future," he said.
More about Ithemba House
The Ithemba House for the homeless officially opened on 3 April 2017 and has been assisting people in need for eight years. The then Minister of Social Services, Albert Fritz, and then Oudtshoorn Mayor, Colin Sylvester, attended this occasion. The first intake consisted of eight men. These candidates were all individuals who had been living on the streets for more than 10 years. They were assisted to decrease or stop using drugs and some tested clean after the first month in the shelter program. The first 30 days of their stay were on a voluntary 'lockdown' in which they adapted well from street life. Integration back into their families is important, as well as getting jobs.
The first intake success rate was: reinte-gration into society 50% and social rehabilitation and personal progress 25%. With the second intake, the reintegration rate was 70% and the social rehabilitation and personal progress were 5%.
Photogallery: Itemba Huis vir haweloses opgradeer
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