Family recovers after fire left them with nothing
A Kroonvale family left in despair after a shack fire in Mandela Park on 1 July, are hopeful once again.
This, after residents and businesses in Graaff-reinet donated items to help the family get back on their feet.
"We are grateful for everything that the community has done for us. God is good," said grandmother and the head of the family, Elsie Williams (66).
When the Advertiser first spoke to her shortly after the fire that left at least 10 people homeless, she could barely speak due to shock.
On a second visit earlier this week, Williams was found smiling, while doing laundry with Shumeez Williams (18). Shumeez was at a friend's house when children who saw the fire at the time came running to her for help.
"I still can't believe it happened, but we're alright now. We are grateful for everyone, for this caring community," Shumeez said.
When news of the fire broke, Ward Councillor Ricardo Smith appealed to the community to make donations.
Following his post on Facebook, the donations came pouring in.
“I was very impressed with our community for their response. There are indeed good people in Graaff-reinet," Smith told the Advertiser.
"I didn't keep track of how many bags we received, but there was everything from clothes and shoes to blankets and food," Smith explained.
According to him, donators included the staff of Derek Light's office, Karoo Catch, Moira Kingwill and staff, and various other members of the community.
"The Mahonna family donated a bunk bed, and a woman who wished to remain anonymous gave R1 000 for building supplies." Montego Pet Nutrition also donated building supplies.
"Clothes of sizes that cannot benefit the family will be taken to the community of Nieu Bethesda," Smith added.
He concluded that the family is still in need of building supplies.
Smith can be contacted on 060 363 4208.