An Alexandra family is turning to the community for help rebuilding what a fire took from them on August 23.

With their couch, bed, television and washing machine destroyed, and important documents lost in the blaze, 11th Avenue resident Simon Shivambu, who lives with his family, including two children, said there is a long way to go before life returns to normal. He is asking for the community to help however they can.

“It could be helpful to get a bed, TV, or anything they can help with,” he said.

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The fire started with a faulty heater cable, which ignited and quickly set a nearby couch alight. Shivambu said he only realised how serious it was once the flames had already taken hold. “By the time I saw the fire, the couch was already burning. I rushed to get a bucket of water to put out the fire, but the flames were strong. I poured the second bucket of water, but the fire became worse,” he recalled.

As Shivambu fought to control the blaze, one of the children with him ran out to call for help. Neighbours arrived soon after with buckets of water, dousing the flames before they could consume the entire house. It was enough to save the structure, but not the family’s possessions inside, nor, Shivambu admitted, his own composure. “By the time people arrived to help, I was traumatised, seeing my belongings burning,” he said.

Among the losses, some hit harder than others. Alongside the furniture and appliances, the family lost personal documents, including birth certificates, although Shivambu said they had already been promised help replacing those.

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The response since has offered some relief: neighbours have pledged to help repair the home’s charred ceiling, install new floor tiles, and repaint the fire-damaged walls, while the family’s 15-year-old child has already received a replacement school uniform.

However, with furniture, appliances and much of the household still to replace, Shivambu said the family’s needs go well beyond what neighbours have offered so far. He said those who wish to help can contact him on 0785469498 or visit 149 11th Avenue, Alexandra.

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