Mama Rose determined to help others
Mama Rose is a retired teacher dedicated to help children in need.
One of Mama Rose Mashaba’s (59) last memories of the three people she lost in the gas tanker explosion on December 24, 2022, is a meeting about helping underprivileged children.
Mama Rose lost her daughter Vutivi Mlati (35), son Ndumiso Mashaba (25) and daughter-in-law Neo Mashaba in the explosion.
Speaking to the Boksburg Advertiser, she said she is still struggling to come to terms with it. Vutivi was a receptionist while Ndumiso was a coach at Parkrand Primary School and Neo an IT intern.
“It was a horrible year. It’s still painful and I miss them a lot. It feels like it happened yesterday.” Mama Rose explained she is a former teacher and used to assist underprivileged children at her house with homework and feed them.
“Poverty is sad. Even till this day I help where I can. People know they can donate necessities to me and I will distribute it.
“My children who I lost in the explosion assisted me financially so that I can make a difference in those children’s lives. The night before the explosion we had a meeting to discuss the details about a Christmas party for the children,” explained Mama Rose.
This year, Mama Rose, in conjunction with Rise and Shine, will be holding a Christmas party at her house for the children on December 17. Donations in the form of necessities such as sanitary pads, toiletries and toys will be appreciated.
Mama Rose’s grandchildren are getting her through this difficult time.
Ndumiso leaves behind a boy (4) and girl (1), while Vutivi had a one-year-old girl.
“I keep on pushing for the grandchildren. At least they seem to be doing fine,” said Mashaba.
Apart from ripping away her loved ones, the explosion also caused extensive damage to her house. This includes damage to the ceilings, windows and geyser, leaving her without hot water.
The windows have been fixed, but the geyser is still broken.
“We are struggling. Siqalo Food used to send food to us, which we are grateful for, but now they stopped. It was helping a lot.”
About the one-year anniversary of the explosion, Mama Rose said she will not be spending the day at her house as it is too painful for her.
Anybody who can assist may contact Mama Rose on 079 690 5625.
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