Community rallies to support Evelyn Makoa in her fight for a safe home

Evelyn Makoa has lived in Imizamo Yethu for just over seven years, but each day remains a struggle as she fights to keep the roof of her Peterson Street home over her head.

She and her two children face constant uncertainty, she says.

“It’s like living a nightmare every day and all you can do is continue,” she said.

Ms Makoa's shack, barely standing under the weight of the rain and wind, has gaping holes that allow torrents of water to pour into her living space whenever it rains.

This has resulted in a continuous cycle of rebuilding and salvaging what little they have left.

“I have to try and save what I can, rebuild and then I will have to do it all again. That is life; it’s like we are running in a circle,” she said. 

Her plight recently caught the attention of local resident Miriam Tetani, who was approached by one of Evelyn’s sons, desperately seeking help.

“When we visited, we were all left in shock. There was rain falling through the makeshift roof; the whole place was wet and cold inside, and she just looked so defeated,” Ms Tetani said.

To assist, Ms Tetani asked the community to help Ms Makoa and her family.

The Makoa family is currently using a worn-out tent draped over their shack in a desperate attempt to shield their belongings from the elements.

“This is truly heartbreaking,” said Ms Tetani, adding: “They are trying to hold on to what little they have, but without a proper roof over their heads, how can they cope?”

She said the harsh reality is compounded by recent weather warnings, which have indicated severe cold temperatures and disruptive conditions across the region, including the Western Cape and beyond.

Ms Tetani has taken to social media to spread the word and gather vital resources - she is calling for donations of building materials, blankets, warm clothing, and anything that could alleviate the family’s burden.

If anybody would like to help the Makoa family, contact Ms Tetani on 061 651 9293.