Marked with pure joy, the dream of owning a home finally became a reality for 78 families in Rosedale, Pacaltsdorp.
Pacaltsdorp, South Africa (03 September 2024) – The indescribable joy of receiving a brand-new home after enduring years of hardship must have been overwhelming for the 78 deserving families in Rosedale, Pacaltsdorp.
The recent housing handover at the Erf 325 East Housing Development marked a turning point in their lives, offering a fresh start in a new and improved community.
Despite the cold weather, the event, held on Wednesday, 28 August 2024 was filled with celebration and optimism.
The Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Jackie von Brandis, led the official handover of the houses to the 78 beneficiaries, joined by the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements in the George Municipality, Jean Safers, and Ward 14 Councillor, Melvin Roelfse, who served as the programme director.
Mayor von Brandis thanked and acknowledged all the stakeholders and officials who made the project a success from its inception.
The 78 families who received their houses came from various informal settlements in Pacaltsdorp and were selected from the waiting list based on the criteria of being 60 years and older, farm dwellers, persons with disabilities, and the general waiting list.
The new homeowners expressed immense relief and happiness, with many sharing emotional stories of their long wait for a place to call their own.
The first house was handed over to 40-year-old Caroline Booysen, who is living with a disability. Booysen expressed her gratitude, saying:
“I couldn’t contain my tears—they’ve been rolling down from excitement and joy. I’m very grateful for my new house.”
Among the beneficiaries were also elderly citizens. Eighty-year-old Nofundile Jaxa shared:
“I’m ecstatic to receive a home. When I heard I would finally be receiving my house today, I couldn’t sleep last night, looking forward to this moment.”
Another very emotional recipient 73-year-old David Louw, was overjoyed and shared that he’s waited for 20 years for his house.
Officials from the George Municipality’s Human Settlements department conducted a consumer education programme to guide the new homeowners about the responsibilities of a homeowner and how to care for their properties.
As they received their homes, 16 beneficiaries received their title deeds. The remaining 62 will be handed over as soon as it is received from the attorneys.
According to the George Municipality, the Erf 325 East Pacaltsdorp Housing Project is a government-funded development that started in 2018. It includes 1,091 different types of housing structures, as well as community facilities like crèches, churches, and a community centre.
Sources: George Municipality
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