Lighting the way

Forty-eight fire victims from White Location now have access to basic electricity, thanks to the generosity of a US businessman.

The Fred Alger Fire Relief Trust donated R13 200 towards the electricity connection fees for the households of these victims, which ensured that they had a safe Christmas. Alger is currently based in Cape Town, but Knysna has always been close to his heart as his partner was born and raised in Knysna. The couple contacted local friends Jill and Colin Mathiesen to administer and distribute the funds on their behalf.

One of the beneficiaries, Mkhuseli Mankayi, expressed his gratitude when he said, “It was such a struggle using a paraffin stove, candles and so forth, and it was a very dangerous situation that could create more fires. I am very happy now because my TV and fridge are connected.”

Azola Sikontya, another beneficiary, said, “Thank you for giving us a bright festive season. Even in January, we were also able to prepare our children when they went back to school. We can now help with homework properly, iron their uniforms and prepare their lunches for the following day.”

A third resident and beneficiary, Lusindiso Mnkatha, also thanked Jill and the Fred Alger Fire Relief Trust and said that thanks to this gift, his family had a blessed Christmas and festive season.

Ward 4 councillor and Planning and Integrated Human Settlements chairperson Velile Waxa said, “As a result of your generosity and kindness these families could enjoy a lovely Christmas but more importantly, you gave them a good and positive start to the new year.”

Alger, a US businessman, donated $100 000 to fire victims immediately on hearing of the devastation. He understands loss and trauma, having lost his brother, nephew and the entire staff of Alger’s investment firm during the Twin Towers attack in New York in 2001. At the age of 65, Alger had to rebuild his entire business.

Since the June fires, the trust has quietly assisted a number of families, individuals, scholars, the school hostel and small businesses.

Photo: Supplied White Location resident Azola Sikontya (right) was the beneficiary of an electricity connection after losing her home in the June fires. With her is Knysna Ward 4 councillor Velile Waxa.