Terror attack victim helps rebuild lives in Knysna
A UNITED States businessman, whose company was wiped out in the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York, is quietly helping victims of the devastating fires rebuild their lives in one of Knysna’s poorest suburbs.
Thanks to the generosity of Fred Alger‚ the families of 48 fire victims from White Location, who were left in the dark after the fire in June, now have access to basic electricity.
Alger lost his brother‚ nephew and the entire staff of the Fred Alger Investment Firm during the collapse of the Twin Towers.
At the age of 65, he had to rebuild his entire business and also started a trust in his name to help victims of loss and devastation.
He is now based in Cape Town but his partner was born and raised in Knysna.
It was that connection that prompted him to donate $100 000 (R1.1-million) to the victims of the fire after hearing about its devastating effect on the Garden Route town.
His trust donated R13 200 towards electricity connection fees in White Location.
“It was such a struggle using a paraffin stove‚ and candles,” one of the beneficiaries‚ Mkhuseli Mankayi, said.
“It was a very dangerous situation that could have created more fires. I am happy now because my TV and fridge are connected.”
The Knysna municipality said the donation had helped families prepare lunches and iron uniforms as children returned to school last month.
Ward 4 councillor and planning and integrated human settlements chairman‚ Velile Waxa said: “I would like to thank you for making the electrification of these houses possible. I am humbled by your generosity.”
Hundreds of homes were destroyed and seven people died in the fires which raged in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.