Fundraising club night for tower block fire survivors

AFTER witnessing the devastation left by the Grenfell Tower disaster first-hand, a woman is hosting a charity event in Cardiff for the survivors.

Konsa Michallef, who moved from London to the Welsh capital four years ago, has already delivered donations collected in the city to North Kensington and is now planning a big event.

Last month’s tower block fire killed at least 80 people, although police say the final number will not be known for many months.

Those who made it out alive are still awaiting news of missing relatives.

Konsa met some of these people, including friends of hers, in Kensington Memorial Park. Many of them still have no access to their bank accounts.

“It is absolutely heartbreaking,” the 35-year-old said. “I used to work a lot in this area when I lived in London, and it has made me feel lucky to be alive.

“A six-year-old walked over to me and said ‘Mummy told me that you have brought me some toys to play with.’ This is affecting children. If that doesn’t make your heart break I don’t know what will.

“Survivors have lost everything and belongings they do have are being stolen. I have never witnessed anything like it.”

On her arrival, both representatives from Kensington and Chelsea council and British Red Cross refused her donations.

“I had driven a van from Cardiff to London and the council said that they had enough donations,” she said.

“But I had women crying and begging me not to take the van of goods back. I ended up taking them to a local social club near the tower block who said they would hand it out to those they knew who lived there.

“Within days I found out that most of it had been picked up and they had built a small play area with all of the toys donated for children of the families.”

Konsa is now hosting a charity event at Cardiff bar Mocka Lounge, to raise awareness and funds for those affected by the fire.

“Those that have been re-homed still can’t afford gas or electricity,” Konsa said.

“All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will go directly into the hands that need it.”

Taking place tonight from 7pm, there will be live music from X Factor singer Beth Morris, a casino table and a live auction.

While it is free to enter, there will be a raffle and donation buckets to raise money.