Struggle after fire destroys homes

In the past three months, fires have destroyed the homes of 15 families in separate incidents across Grahamstown. Makana Municipality informed Grahamstown Red Cross chairperson Annerie Wolmarans of the incidents in an attempt to get assistance for the families.

Wolmarans visited the homes on Thursday 24 November to check on the damage, but said at the moment she had nothing to give the families.

“When Red Cross has got something we always try to help people, but due to lack of funds it is difficult to assist sometimes,” Wolmarans said.

Phindiswa Vinjiwe whose Extension 10 house was destroyed by fire, said municipal officials had visited after the incident.
“They said they can’t help us because the municipality has no funds.”

Vinjiwe said the fire had started from her neighbour’s house and jumped to hers around 1am.

“I heard my neighbour screaming, asking for help,” Vinjiwe said.

“I quickly jumped out to check, but the fire was already all over her house. We called the fire brigade and I saw that the fire was now moving towards my house.

“I ran and took out some of my items. The fire brigade arrived and managed to stop the fire around 3am. But I lost my bed and now I’m sleeping on the floor.”

After visiting all the fire victims’ homes, Wolmarans said any donations from the public, including clothes, furniture or food would make it possible for them to help the families.

“Red Cross is always willing to assist the community, but due to lack of funds it becomes difficult sometimes,” she said.
In Lingelihle a 29-year-old man reportedly died when his house caught fire.

Makana Municipality spokesperson Yoliswa Ramokolo had not yet responded to questions by the time of going to print.

Wolmarans urged anyone who would like to contribute to contact her at 082 655 7579 or 046 622 4138.