Fire victims from Ward 93 in Khayelitsha were thrilled when they received food parcels from the local retailer on Thursday 6 October.
At least 26 food parcels were donated to the fire victims from K2 and Greenpoint informal settlements.
At least 13 shacks were destroyed by fire on Wednesday 28 September in K2 and another 13 shacks were razed at Greenpoint on Monday 1 October.
The two fires left more than 50 people destitute.
Ward councillor Thando Pimpi described the food parcels as a relief for the victims and needy families. He appealed to other business people to assist the victims.
“It is tough ever since the City stopped providing building materials to the shack fire victims. But I’m trying to ask all the local businesses to assist where they can. The sad part is many of the victims are unemployed and are struggling to make the ends meet,” said Pimpi.
However, he stated that only two families in K2 section are yet to rebuild their shacks, with only one family in Greenpoint still homeless. He said people had to use their charred material to rebuild their homes.
“Those families who are yet to rebuild their shacks are struggling, their material was badly damaged and there is no way that they can re-use it. For now they are staying with friends and relatives,” said Pimpi.
One of the victims, who described himself as Thole, said the food parcel will make a difference.
“Le venkile isincedile. I didn’t have food and I don’t have clothes. I’m also not working. I managed to rebuild a small shack just to cover my head. We are appealing to the community to give us clothes to wear,” he pleaded.
Thole said he will combine his parcel with his friend’s grocery as they cook in one place.
“I don’t have a stove to cook, my friend has one. Since the shack fire incident occurred we share everything,” said Thole.