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Helping elderly couple is true spirit of ubuntu

Your article "Ubuntu is alive, Good Samaritan helps old, homeless couple" published on February 22 refers.

Your article "Ubuntu is alive, Good Samaritan helps old, homeless couple" published on February 22 refers.

The Department of Housing would like to commend Nontombi Mngomezulu for donating a prefab house to Grace Seleka and Douglas "Jackals" Mcina, the elderly, homeless couple.

This is an example of how we can all contribute as individuals and improve the lives of our people.

Mngomezulu has truly responded in the spirit of ubuntu by adopting the elderly couple and keeping them together. We encourage her to continue helping them.

There is a need to highlight the plight of old and disabled people, the most vulnerable members of our society.

The department has a housing subsidy for elderly and sick people, and also orphans.

Old and sick people who earn less than R800 a month can access a housing subsidy of R36000, plus additional funds for paving and ramps, bathroom rails, kick plates and visible door bells for people who are deaf.

Orphans aged under 21 may access the subsidy or it may be done on their behalf by a legal guardian.

It is important that special needs are stipulated when making an application.

We once again compliment Mngomezulu, and encourage more people to follow her selfless example.

Monwabisi Maclean

Chief director of communication

Department of Housing

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