In a commendable move towards community development, Click Africa Digital’s CEO, George, has initiated the establishment of an informal football club, “Pride FC,” in the Woodstock area of Cape Town. This Corporate Social Investment (CSI) project aims not only to engage the local youth but also to contribute positively to the community. This initiative comes at a crucial time when the old Woodstock Hospital, now known as Cissie Gool House, has received heritage approval for social housing.

Woodstock’s Changing Landscape: The historic Woodstock Hospital, a site occupied by those in need of housing, recently gained heritage approval for the development of approximately 700 social housing units. The city, led by Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, has declared this project as its most significant inner-city housing development to date.

However, the progress faces challenges, primarily due to the ongoing occupation of the property and slow construction on other designated sites. Housing advocacy group Reclaim the City contends that the city has not fulfilled its promises since 2017 and has failed to address the urgent need for inner-city affordable housing.

Click Africa Digital’s Contribution: Amidst these challenges, Click Africa Digital’s George has taken a proactive approach by introducing Pride FC. This informal football club aims to provide a constructive and engaging environment for the youth in Woodstock, particularly those living in Cissie Gool House. The initiative aligns with Click Africa Digital’s commitment to social responsibility and community development.

Keeping Woodstock’s Youth Occupied: The establishment of Pride FC is not just about football; it’s a strategic move to keep the youth occupied, especially after school hours. Recognizing the challenges faced by kids in the community, Click Africa Digital intends to offer a positive and constructive outlet, preventing them from getting involved in potential troubles.

Challenges and Opportunities: As the city continues to grapple with the complex issue of social housing, Click Africa Digital’s initiative is a beacon of hope for the youth in Woodstock. The challenges faced by the city, including ongoing property occupations and slow construction progress, highlight the need for collaborative efforts from both the public and private sectors.

Conclusion: George’s decision to launch Pride FC as part of Click Africa Digital’s CSR initiatives is a step in the right direction. It not only contributes to the social development of Woodstock but also serves as an example for other businesses to actively participate in community-building efforts. As the youth engage in healthy activities through Pride FC, there is hope for a brighter and more inclusive future for Woodstock.