Community comes together to assist fire victim
Local organisations and community members have responded to the need of a pensioner after a fire claimed his home.
Tsakani – Local organisations and community members have responded to help a pensioner after a fire claimed his home.
Sixty-seven-year-old Sello Jacob Mokgethi was left to pick up the pieces after a fire broke out in his home on June 12.
On Saturday, the pensioner received keys to his rebuilt home.
A portion of the house was rebuilt from scratch, new corrugated irons were installed, walls were plastered inside and out, and blankets, kitchen supplies and three brand-new beds were donated.
Also read: Fire claims family home
The African Reporter reported on the incident in its June 18 edition, ‘Home burns to ashes’, in which the pensioner pleaded with the community to lend a helping hand.
Community radio station EK FM, bikers’ organisation Kasi to Kasi Charity Bikers and community member Maki Nyakale were at the forefront of the campaign to rebuild the burnt down house.
Acting marketing manager at EK FM Chris Kope stated the station learned about the fire through its community initiative programme EK FM Cares.
“As a station, we are committed to giving back to our community through our community initiative.
“So when Nyakale sent us a voice note detailing the horrific incident that had taken place, we had to disseminate the information to other people.
“I was also advised to contact a gentleman who is the chairperson of the Biker to Biker Association and luckily they offered to assist,” he said.
Mokgethi expressed his gratitude to all parties involved and warned residents to take precautions when using a candle.
Chairperson of 247 Riders Godfrey Mogalane said members from various bikers’ organisations contributed money to ensure the fire victim received assistance.
He explained that on inspection, the house was completely burned and needed new roofing.
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