Family gets new home after rainstorms

Work was done over the festive season to have the house ready early in the year for the family.

King Khosi watches as Neraksha Bhowani of SACC hands the keys to the house to Thabile Xulu, as Jim Lukhele from SACC, Bheki Sangweni the contractor and John van der Walt of SACC watch on.

BALLENGEICH – Heavy rains in December caused serious damage to a few homes of residents in Ballengeich.

Human Resources Manager of SA Calcium Carbide (Pty) Ltd (SACC), Neraksha Bhowani, said Ballengeich production manager, Jim Lukhele alerted SACC management to the situation.

Read: Vehicle washed away in Amcor Dam floods

“Management investigated the affected areas in Ballengeich; roofs and homes were destroyed, leaving some residents without shelter,” she said.

Touched by the plight of the residents, Ms Bhowani said one family in particular needed drastic intervention.

The Xulu family consists of nine siblings between the ages of 26 and two years.

“We have been living in the house for 10 years and our parents recently died. When the rain damaged our home, it really affected us.”

Upon investigation, SACC found the Xulu family resorted to living in a small hut.

“SACC stepped in and offered to restore the home, but due to its the poor condition, it had to be completely rebuilt.”

The company paid a contractor to build a new home for the family.

“Work was done over the festive season to have the house ready early in the year for the family.”

Bheki Sangweni of the contractor complimented SACC for the company’s efforts. “It was a touching project, as SACC did something not many companies did. Their efforts are appreciated.”

Miss Xulu thanked SACC for the newly constructed home.