Angels descend on Alex family
ALEXANDRA – Members of non-profit organisation Angels Network revamped a ramshackle one-roomed hovel.
Real-life angels came to the assistance of an Alex family of four recently and changed their lives forever.
Members of non-profit organisation Angels Network revamped a ramshackle one-roomed hovel that the Ngonyoza family has occupied for years, risking their lives if it had collapsed. The unforgettable moment occurred on 27 July and was witnessed by neighbours on 18th Avenue who were in awe of the generosity bestowed on one of their own.
Neighbour and councillor Adolph Marema said they were worried that the dilapidated shack would one day collapse. “Unbeknown, help arrived which can only be termed ‘work of angels’ who we beseech to also descend and touch others in similar conditions,” Marema added.
“We are thrilled and appreciate the gift which only angels from above can do for the destitute. We urge them to continue doing good.”
Another neighbour, Freda Lebelo said it was rare for strangers to express this kind of love and added that they had installed a communal gate to ensure criminals did not attack the family as their door would not lock and windows couldn’t close due to disrepair.
The emotional homeowner Martha Ngonyoza, her sister Maria and her children, Sam and Siya smiled and appeared dazed as the reality of their changed life sunk in. “We are happy, thank you, please help others, you will forever remain in our hearts,” Martha said.
The organisation’s Beverley Smith said the network of more than 20 000 local and international members organised through Facebook, canvased for resources to support specific causes.
“R35 000 was raised to renovate and add another room to the home with the work completed in one and a half months,” she said.
“The family was at risk… The room was rat infested, the door, windows and walls were falling apart, the electricity connection was faulty and the family members were in total despair.”
Shelly Mann kept a regular presence to ensure the right décor, painting and modern artistic feel to the new home. Manuela Nogueira of NBC Holdings chipped in with kitchen cabinets.
