A fire in the Bossiesgif informal settlement in Plettenberg Bay has left more than 180 people homeless.
The fire that broke out on Monday marks the third in the area in 2025 and destroyed about 90 homes.
Organisations such as Gift of the Givers, Native Roots and the Dignity Fund are providing aid, including essentials such as food, blankets and hygiene products while residents, including those with children writing exams, are clearing the area to rebuild as the Bitou Municipality co-ordinates emergency relief efforts.
Bongeka Klaas, 44, a mother of six children, said she arrived from work and found her sister’s house burning, with her home going up in flames just moments later.
“This is heartbreaking.
“My sister lost everything, but at least I managed to save some of my furniture.
“The shack is down, and I am now here fixing my burnt zinc, hoping it’s not too damaged for me to use again.”
Klaas said the situation had emotionally destroyed her children as they were worried about their school uniforms and books.
“My children will be strong, they will survive this and we will get over it as a family.
“As sad as this is for them they, however, accept it and also start to assist to rebuild their homes,” she said.
Gerrie van der Walt from the Dignity Fund said they had been on the ground throughout the year, assisting people with essentials, but this incident had left the community devastated.
“I know of one lady who just renovated her home and extended it.
“Her shack was also caught in the fire and burned down. Everything is gone, and now she needs to rebuild her shack again,” he said.
Bitou Municipality spokesperson Andile Namtu said in the aftermath of the devastating fire that destroyed between 84 to 90 households, the affected residents were clearing the area in preparation to rebuild their homes.
“A total of 183 people were impacted, including 69 children, many of whom are writing or preparing for their final academic exams.
“The Bitou Municipality is working urgently to prepare and distribute emergency building materials to help families begin reconstruction.
“Humanitarian aid is being provided, and we extend heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organisations who continue to lend a helping hand during such difficult times.” Namntu said.
Mario Ferreira from Gift of the Givers said they provided the firefighters with energy drinks while they were fighting the fire.
“We immediately assessed the situation and are working closely with Bitou Municipality Disaster Response.
“With the assistance of Shoprite, a mobile soup kitchen will be on site to provide soup and bread until Friday.
“Emergency assistance of blankets, mattresses, hygiene packs, food parcels and baby nappies will be distributed to those who suffered loss,” he said.
Toiletries, blankets, clothes, baby clothes and nappies, among other necessities, can be dropped off at the Native Roots shelter on the corner of Marine Drive and Seawitch, or donate funds to the Gift of the Givers Nedbank account 1261595807.
The Herald
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