Cape Town - Grade 12 learner Sinovuyo Chithakalo, from Sinethemba High in Philippi, was left traumatised because her school uniform and all her study material was destroyed in the fire in Silver Town, Khayelitsha.
The fire destroyed 342 informal structures in the early hours on Saturday morning.
The deadly fire left about 1355 people without a roof over their heads, and many with just the clothing that they had on their backs.
Less than 10km away, 1400 people were still sifting through the smouldering embers of another horrific fire that had destroyed their homes in the Kosovo informal settlement, Philippi, in the early hours of on Saturday morning.
Chithakalo said that she is only left with a few books, and that her school shoes were also destroyed in the fire.
“On Tuesday I’m starting my final Matric exams, and that’s really affecting me because some of my books are burnt, and I don’t know whether I will cope for my finals or not.”
Chithakalo added that amidst all the devastation, she will not give up.
“Even though some of my books and study materials were burnt, I will make sure I borrow from my friends.”
The Gift of the Givers teams were also in Khayelitsha, arranging meals for the victims of the blaze.
To assist, GoTG may be contacted toll-free on 0800786911. Alternatively, phone Badr Kazi on 0832281298 or Ali Sablay on 0826514195.
In a separate incident, a fire occurred in the Kosovo informal settlement in Philippi on Saturday night. About 120 dwellings were destroyed and some 1400 people had been affected. City officials were still on site assessing the damage, the city said.
Banking details to assist the Kosovo residents are as follows: Mayoral Relief Fund, Nedbank, account number 1158667043, branch code 198765 and ref A009.
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