PAARL – Drakenstein Municipality has introduced PayPoint terminals at Paarl businesses to enable residents to support homeless people safely whilst discouraging street begging.
The initiative, part of the municipality’s recently adopted Homelessness Policy, allows the public to make cash or card donations that go directly to two accredited overnight shelters providing food, care and developmental programmes.
Geduld Veldsman, senior social development officer at Drakenstein Municipality, said the terminals offer a constructive alternative to handing out cash on the streets.
“Funds go where they are most effective, helping to reduce dependency and improve safety for vulnerable individuals,” Veldsman said.
The municipality’s decision follows a recent meeting with Paarl schools and the South African Police Service, where network partners raised concerns that cash handouts are fuelling an increase in child and adult begging. Incidents have been reported where children were robbed whilst begging.
The shelters receiving donations use the funds for meals, hygiene items, developmental and support programmes, and operational needs. Both facilities report to Drakenstein Municipality and submit financial statements, whilst the Western Cape Department of Social Development provides additional monitoring.
“This ensures full transparency and responsible use of public contributions,” Veldsman said.
The initiative forms part of the municipality’s long-term strategy to reduce street begging, address root causes of homelessness, provide structured pathways off the streets, and build safer public spaces.
PayPoint terminals are currently available at Kikka Bernina, 271 Main Road, Paarl; Roodeberg Pharmacy, 175 Main Road, Hoog-En-Droog, Paarl; Brew Coffee Shop, 15 Jan van Riebeeck Drive, Denneburg, Paarl; and ReSkin Aesthetics, Shop 7, Frater Square, 40A Main Road, Paarl.
Additional sites will be added in Paarl and Wellington. Business owners willing to host a terminal at no cost can contact Veldsman at Drakenstein Municipality.
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