Joy as tenants move into new homes
THE Fairview Link social housing project not only provides affordable housing, but brings people of all cultures together.
That is how Human Settlement MEC Helen Sauls-August described the new project that was officially opened last night.
“Today we are celebrating together. We are integrating black, white and coloured people into one community here in Fairview.”
There were smiles all round as the MEC handed over keys to the eager new tenants of the one- and two-bedroom flats.
Forty people moved in prior to the official opening, and a further 23 were welcomed yesterday.
The housing project will consist of more than 368 units when completed. The units range between 30m² and 54m² and are for tenants who earn between R1 500 and R7 500 per month.
The McDonald family applied in September last year, and were overjoyed to receive their keys yesterday.
“We move in next month. It’s been a long wait, but we are finally here. We have our own home,” Twanette McDonald said.
Husband Jacques said the best thing about their new home was the safety it provided them and their four-year-old son Juanré.
“The complex is safe, and it’s in a great area. Our son can play outside without us having to worry all the time.”
One of their neighbours, Masixole Gqamana, said it was a nerve-racking experience to have the MEC in his house before he had even seen it.
“But I don’t mind. This is my house, and it is perfect.”
Sauls-August said her department was already looking at locations for more projects.
“This is crucial for people in the low- to middle-income gap. They can now live in better areas, closer to work. Transport is cheaper, and they do not have to live in informal areas.”