DEMS restores livelihoods of Alberton shack fire victims
In just a week, City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services helped rebuild shacks following a fierce blaze in the early hours of May 1.
Ekurhuleni DEMS recently heeded the desperate call of shack fire victims following a blaze that broke out on May 1, scorching at least 16 shacks.
The dedicated team helped put up 13 new shacks for the severely affected victims. This comes after a severe blaze left many families devastated and homeless overnight at the Alberton Train Station informal settlement. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Ward 37 councillor Ivan Naidoo said he contacted the MMC of Human Settlements Dino Peterson within the same week the shacks were rebuilt.
“DEMS was out throughout the week to rebuild these shacks. We are still putting out an appeal for donations of beds and bedding for the residents during these trying times. If we could get some furniture out for them that would be highly appreciated, especially after they lost everything,” said Naidoo.
He also thanked DEMS for their prompt response and also thanked Alberton residents for their continuous support of the victims.
“After the article, we had Denzil Naidoo and a Brackenhurst resident who donated a stack of preloved clothing and school stationery. We had just brought about eight bags of preloved clothing, which will be handed over to the shack fire victims,” Naidoo said.
Speaking on behalf of the community, leader Samuel Makhafola said this assistance will make a huge difference in the lives of the victims.
“We are truly happy that they assisted us in time. Some of these victims were even sleeping outside after the blaze destroyed all their belongings and their shacks. All donations received will then be shared equally with all the victims,” he said.
Should you wish to make any donations, contact Naidoo on 061 545 3372.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Blaze engulfs 16 shacks
