Eight families from Paballelo in Upington received an early Christmas gift today when the Premier, Ms Sylvia Lucas, in conjunction with Standard Bank turned the sod for construction of the houses to start. Standard Bank as part of their social responsibility offered to construct eight houses in the Khara Hais Municipal area or families who are in dire need of housing.
They approached Government to assist with the identification of families that meet their criteria namely that the beneficiary must either be a child-headed household or an elderly person who has never owned a house.
The Premier stated at the sod turning that. “We were pleased when Standard Bank approached us with this proposal for us to identify families in need of housing. Although provision of housing forms a priority of this Government, we often find it difficult to provide for everyone due to a lack of resources, we therefore thank Standard Bank for this noble initiative and entering into a partnership with Government in order to put a roof over people’s heads. Because we keep a list of people who live in dilapidated houses we could easily choose from this list when Standard Bank approached us.”
The houses will be ready for handover on the 5 December and will be 45 square metres in size, with a bathroom, ceiling and a tiled roof. The foundation consists of a steel structure that reinforces the house and prevents structural damage.
“Standard Bank views having a house as very important and will gladly work with any partner that will make this a reality. As Standard Bank we are here to assist communities and will definitely be doing more”, said Mercia Bloem, Head of Province for Standard Bank.
The Khara Hais Municipality provided the serviced sites for construction of these houses. First-time homeowner Ragel Spannenberg aged 75, thanked Government for making her dream of owning a house a reality. She looks forward to moving into her brand new home.
The Premier challenges all other financial institutions to follow the example set by Standard and work with Government to lift people out of poverty in any way their policies provide.
Released by the Office of the Premier
Spokesperson: Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, 083 447 6586