Fire leaves many homeless
KYA SANDS – More than six people, including four children, have been left homeless after a house in Kya Sands was left in ashes after a fire broke out.
Although the cause of the fire is still unknown, it is suspected that the fire was caused by an electric appliance that was left on.
Rose Machaba, a tenant of the house, said she returned home on 23 July only to find her house completely destroyed.
“When I arrived home, people were running around with buckets of water trying to put the fire out,” said Machaba.
According to her, the fire department only arrived at 7.30pm. “I have been left with nothing except for the clothes I was wearing on the day.”
Machaba who was renting the house added that her five-year-old daughter was forced to miss school the following day as she did not have any clothes to wear.
She added that neighbours had been extremely supportive throughout the ordeal, assisting with food and accommodation for the children.
Michelle Stewart, a neighbour said, “People are using my house as a drop-off point for clothing and blankets.”
Stewart added that four of the children were sleeping and bathing at her place until another plan was made for accommodation.
Chairperson of the Douglasdale Community Policing Forum, Jean Berdou applauded the community and all those involved for their teamwork.
Berdou said, “What an incredible example of standing together … it is a privilege to know and work with you all.”
If anyone would like to donate further clothing, food, blankets and bedding please do not hesitate to contact Stewart.
Details: 082 851 1212; 072 189 2148
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