Kraaifontein residents celebrated Women’s Day on Sunday by honouring five mothers who are doing sterling work in the community.
One of the women, who has been on the housing waiting list for 36 years, also received her very own home.
The 3x3 metre galvanised steel structure was sponsored by Uni-Homes in Brackenfell.
Uni-Homes specialises in building affordable living and storage units that resemble metal containers, but are not, and comes with panelling and isolation and a host of extras.
Sunday’s event was organised by community worker Tania Bowers.
Tears flowed as mom of seven Katrina Brits, 55, cut the ribbon to enter her new home in Impala Street in Scottsdene.
Katrina and her family had up till now lived in a derelict flat whose owner had passed away. Her new home has a kitchen and bedroom.
“I don’t have the words to thank everyone for what they did for me today,” the excited mom said.
“I’ve always been a backyard dweller, depending on other people for help.
“Now my husband Nicolaas and I finally have our own home. It is such a pleasure holding the key to our home in my hands. Thank you to everyone for giving us a better life.”
Tania says they wanted to honour women who are always ready and willing to assist members of their community.
“Ons wou vroue herdenk wat groot spore oor die jare in die Kraaifontein gemeenskap getrap het,” she said.
The other four women received gift bags.
They include Suzie September, 47, who has been at the forefront of fighting for homes for people in Long Street who have been living on the pavement for the past two years after they were evicted from private, low-cost flats in the same area.
“We also honoured auntie Marina Jacobs, who has assisted residents in Scottsdene for more than 40 years, she is someone you can always count on,” says Tania.
“There is also auntie Rosie Bessies who has been running a feeding scheme via her Beacon of Hope NGO from her home in Carmen Street since the lockdown started.
“And finally, we honoured auntie Sophie van Reenen, who is a guiding light for our youth.”