Gogo Mahlatse’s home is rebuilt
Gogo Mahlatse's house was rebuilt by the community after it had burnt down in June.
In June this year, while at a morning church service, Gogo Mahlatse received the devastating news that her home was burnt up, leaving her, her daughter and five grandchildren homeless and destitute.
Melt Hamman, Attacq CEO, said Gogo Mahlatse is a beloved member of the Naledi community, having resided in the area since 1988. When residents heard of Gogo’s misfortune, they quickly banded together to offer moral support and shelter, while a longer-term solution was sought.
“Irvin Evans, a community member and an employee of Mall of Africa, heard how Gogo’s life had literally gone up in flames and shared the news with his management team. Mall of Africa’s centre management was moved and approach the Attacq Foundation to ask if Attacq, the developers of Waterfall City, could offer any assistance to Gogo Mahlatse and her family,” said Hamman.
“While the initial request was for basic necessities such as food, clothing and hygiene products to survive the winter months, it was evident that the family would require more significant help.
“Understanding that this would require wide-scale mobilisation, the Attacq Foundation then galvanised the support of suppliers, local businesses and community members to secure the necessary funds and technical skills to rebuild the Mahlatse family home.
The keys were recently given to Gogo Mahlatse for her new home at a community ceremony to commemorate the occasion. All stakeholders and community members involved in the project were present with not a dry eye in sight as Gogo Mahlatse thanked guests and the Waterfall community for their unwavering support during her trying time.
Hamman said that the Attacq Foundation’s purpose is to be a catalyst for change in every community and area in which they operate. “Sometimes, this change involves large-scale projects and at other times, it’s as simple as helping a community family get back on its feet. We are really proud to see how the Waterfall community has come together to extend a helping hand to one of their own.”
“South Africa’s #Strongertogether movement has yet another proof of how our country’s people are banding together and making a positive difference in each other’s lives. Well done to all involved,” concluded Hamman.
