Fifty families spent last night in the comfort of their new homes after Western Cape Human Settlements Minister Tertuis Simmers handed them their keys on Wednesday as part of the Forest Village Housing Development in Eerste River.
Simmers says this is the first of 267 beneficiaries who will be moving into the development within the next few weeks.
For 19 years, Sandra Noble has been dreaming of owning her own home.
“I was about to finish two decades while on the waiting list,” she said, proudly holding the key to her new home.
“I never thought this day would come. I am truly grateful, particularly to the minister, who made it all possible. I cannot wait to get settled in.”
Earlier this month, Simmers visited the housing project to check on its progress and yesterday said the new homes will help in the fight against the Coronavirus.
“It brought me great joy to see the happiness on the faces of the beneficiaries today,” he says.
“We regard all handovers as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our people and their families.
“Today and all future handovers are undoubtedly assisting in combating Covid-19, as it ensures and strengthens social distancing, while also helping to improve hygiene practices.”
PROJECT: Provincial government handed over keys to Forest Village residents
Forest Village is one of the department’s Catalytic Projects, a mix-use development which commenced in January 2016 and has a budget allocation of R1.1 billion.
Simmers reminded beneficiaries that they now have a responsibility to take care of their homes: “It is important they value the asset they’ve received. We encourage them to draft a will and ensure they leave a legacy for their children.”