Large family faces brighter tomorrow

For an underprivileged family from Section 7, Madadeni, the dream of owning a home has come true.

Until recently, John and Stutu Xhalisa have been living in a two-roomed makeshift house with their 29 family members, consisting of their children and grandchildren.

“It is not always easy living with four generations under one roof,” said Goodenough Smith, Mr Xhalisa’s grandson.

However, the family now have the opportunity to stretch their legs.

Last Wednesday morning, in the presence of neighbours and friends, the Xhalisa family were given the keys to a brand new house which was built especially for them.

The house was built by the Newcastle Municipality and Phumaf, an engineering company, after the family’s plight was made known.

“This is one of the initiatives we at the municipality are driving, that of identifying families in need of houses and social upliftment programmes,” Thuli Thusi, Strategic Executive Director of the Department of Development, Planning and Human Settlements, said.

Phumaf’s Chief of Operations, Rufus Peacock said when the company was contacted by the municipality, Phumaf decided to get involved as part of its social responsibility.

“We are here to support the community, as business is not just about taking, but giving,” he said.

These were sentiments shared by Municipal Speaker, Councillor Mandla Zikhali.

He emphasised the importance of the community working together tin the upliftment of society.

“A big thanks for everyone involved in the project,” he concluded. Mr and Mrs Xhalisa were eager to start their life in their new home with their family.

“May the Lord bless everyone who assisted,” said Mr Smith on behalf of his family.