Westville family loses home and everything in it to fire

THE community of Westville has gathered to assist a family whose house was burnt to the ground in the early hours of Sunday morning. The mother of two said she rented a cottage she lived in with her two children.

“Fortunately, my children and I were not around when the fire broke out. I was at a friend’s place, and my children were with their father. I was called early in the morning to be notified about what had happened,” said the mother. 

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She said she is not sure what caused the fire. “I do not own the property as I am renting, so the Landlord is handling all of those things. Nothing in my rented apartment was insured so I lost everything and will have to start from scratch. I am self-employed, and my working equipment was among the things that were lost in the fire. I am grateful to the community members that have reached out to assist – a community member has offered their equipment so I can carry on with my business as it’s my only source of income,” she said. 

Community members took it to social media in aid of the family. Lee Griffiths, a community member, has taken the initiative to help the family by inviting the public to donate. “Hi all. A community member’s garden cottage (home to her and two children) burnt down last night in Westville North. We are appealing for household items, linen, toiletries, and clothes. Mom: size 30 pants, size small tops, size 5 shoes. Son: 12 years old – size 13/14 years clothes and size 6 shoes. Daughter: six years – size 6/7 clothes and size 2 shoes.” 

Drop-off can be made at 30 Robert Herrick Ave, Westville. You can also call Lee Griffiths on 071 604 2907.