From hardship to hope: Family of ten in Tekatakho receives renovated home

A family of ten is celebrating a new beginning after their dilapidated house was renovated and fully furnished. This was made possible through the generosity of local businesses Lets Cruize Travel and SN Bennett Accountant and Auditors Inc. The newly renovated home was officially handed over to the Mabuza family in Tekatakho, KaBokweni, on June 20. Lets Cruize's director, Sfiso Bennett, said the company first met the family while delivering food parcels after receiving a recommendation from a local school principal. "During our first visit, we realised that food alone would not be enough. The walls were unstable, the roof was badly damaged, and there were no proper beds or furniture. The family was cooking on a small element stove that they put on top of a brick, and exposed electrical wiring posed a serious danger. We decided to renovate the house and provide furniture," he said. Renovations included repairing the walls and roof, improving the yard, installing safer electrical connections, and providing essential household furniture. A JoJo Tank was also donated, as the family did not have running water on the property. Bennett said helping families in need is part of the company's culture, "I am happy that we have been able to change the lives of this family. The children now have proper beds, warm blankets and a safe place to live. They have a stove, cupboards and other necessities," he said. An emotional Phumzile Mabuza expressed gratitude for the support. Unemployed and dependent on social grants, she said the poor condition of the house had made life extremely difficult for her family. "When it rained, we had to stay awake because water leaked throughout the house. My children slept on worn-out bedding on the floor. Winter was always difficult because the roof was damaged. What Lets Cruize has done for us is life-changing, and I will always be grateful," she said. Mabuza lives with her seven children and two young grandchildren. She said the family can now sleep peacefully without fear of the house collapsing or the cold weather. The principal of Buhle Primary School Madala Maphanga, who referred the family, said he was delighted to see the transformation. "The children can now focus on their education instead of worrying about their living conditions. This intervention has given the family hope and a better future," he said. The handover was also attended by the ward councillor, Stanley Nkosi. He said that he was happy for the family and pleased that the donation happened in his ward. He said businesses are always welcome to assist government where they can.