Help still needed for Glenwood family

THE Glenwood family whose Nicolson Road house was destroyed in a fire in the early hours of 31 December, is still appealing for help from the community.

According to Tamaryn Robjant, the community has been amazing in helping her family through what she called a ‘devastating disaster.’

In a Facebook post, Tamaryn said so many people had made a difference and have continued to make her father, Graham’s life, every day, with their help.

“It is this beautiful community’s daily support which keeps us going, so I thank each and every one of you,” she posted.

She appealed to the community to continue to assist as she said the family were in no way coping alone.

The Robjant’s nightmare began when the house caught alight and many neighbours awoke to the sounds of explosions. Two fire brigades arrived to tame the flames but unfortunately the family were left with nothing. Graham Robjant said he was devastated. He lived with his elderly mother, daughter and their family dog in the home.

Glenwood Community Organisations are trying to assist with collections of clothes, furniture, kitchen utensils and food for the devastated family.

Glenwood resident, Mandy Wison, said: “I have just been in contact directly with the family and they are desperate for our help, pride stands in the way but I explained that there are many of us and the load can be light, especially if we have things lying around unused. Storage is no longer a problem as a neighbour is allowing them to use a garage, these items are to help them get back on their feet emotionally, physically in order to start earning and rebuilding, to loose everything is devastating. They lost absolutely everything, gran is in Natal Settlers, very disorientated and confused, wanting to return home. Graham and his daughter Tamaryn and ex-wife Karen are barely coping, battling to focus with stress. They have such a long road ahead and the community has been amazing.”

According to Mandy, the most recent ‘wish list’ from the family includes a pretty single duvet cover for the elderly woman, charcoal, fire lighters, a small braai, tinned foods and basics such as tea, coffee, rusks, toilet paper, Friskies wet packet food (no fish as the cat is allergic to fish), long life milk or milk powder, cooldrink, Vodacom airtime, clothing Graham (30 pants, small medium shirt), clothing for the elderly woman (36 but loose clothing, medium adult nappies, gown), basic first aid goods (panado, cotton wool, plasters, surgical spirits, bandages), unleaded petrol for generator, Optiwolf dog food (dog has arthritis) and tools (enquire with Tamaryn).

For cash deposits contact Tamaryn direct for bank details on 082 903 2793.

There are a few drop off points around the Glenwood and Umbilo area where community members can assist. Donations can be dropped off at KZN Community Assist and Disaster Management 482 Oliver Lea Drive, Umbilo or call 072 512 6722 if you are able to assist. Mandy is in the process of setting up a box at Spar in Glenwood Village as a collection point for people to buy non-perishables.

Footprintgas, the Gas Shop inside Wardkiss Paint and Hardware, in Sydney Road Congella, has also set up a collection for Graham’s family.

“All your loose change is welcome. For every cylinder that you exchange or fill, we will add R2 to the collection. We are also putting a box in the store for anyone who wishes to drop off any item that may help the family. Graham has supported my business for as long as I have owned it and we have become great friends. I will see to it that the family receives all items dropped off and loose change placed in the sealed container.We have already done an investigation and can assure everyone that the fire was not started or caused by gas (LPG),” said Peter George Burns owner at Footprintgas.