Habitat for Humanity's directors visit Pelican Park

The AGM coincided with Habitat for Humanity's Desmond Tutu International Build in Pelican Park in Zeekoevlei. Through partnership with The Power Group, the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government, Habitat drew teams both locally and from the USA to help build homes and the community of Pelican Park.

On Wednesday, 4 March, the directors enjoyed a full day out in Pelican Park, guided by John Bailey, chairman of the Pelican Park Owners Association, itself borne out of the support of Habitat and its partners.
Specific challenges highlighted on the day included the urgent need for more schooling, the integration of individuals from different socio-economic backgrounds into a cohesive community, and the eradication of crime and drug abuse.

Solutions and projects

The directors met with local families and community leaders. They were able to witness, visit and learn first-hand about some of the solutions and projects Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with the community and other stakeholder partners, are rolling out around Pelican Park, such as:

• The 'Garden of Eden', a hydroponic food garden project allowing community members to grow fresh vegetables within a minimal space.
  
• The Nedbank Foundation EduTainer, a well-stocked 'instant classroom' for use as a daycare for 27 children, which came about after Nedbank representatives saw the need for such a facility while participating in a Habitat team build, pulled the necessary resources together and made it a reality.
  
• The collaboration between Habitat for Humanity, the City of Cape Town, and the Pelican Park Owners Association around making the Zeekoevlei Wetlands Nature Reserve into a conservation and recreation destination for local families.
  
• The Pelican Park Neighbourhood Watch's work in reducing crime and assisting addicts enter rehabilitation programmes.
  
• A series of workshops operated through Habitat for Humanity's Social Facilitation Programme, to assist new home owners moving into the area to integrate into the community.

This Social Facilitation Programme allows Habitat to bring about sustainable change in the lives of the new home owners, instilling a sense of ownership to establishing a cohesive and vibrant new community.

"Habitat for Humanity is not just a shoulder for us to lean on, but a brother and sister to partner with. We are so grateful for their dedication and input into the community," Bailey told the group.