At approximately 2am on Saturday, May 8, 15 shacks burnt down in the Pikoko informal settlement in Ruimsig, leaving families displaced.

The blaze which ripped through a portion of the informal settlement is understood to have been caused by a candle that was knocked over.

According to Mogale City Ward 28 councillor Jean Kotze, 30 adults and five children lost just about everything, and a man was taken to hospital with serious burns.

Kotze said temporary accommodation has been organised at the Ruimsig North Church of God, and the West Rand District donated blankets, with food and clothing being donated by residents.

We are working with Disaster Management to provide assistance and are pushing to get building material donated so that the affected people could start to rebuild their lives,” said Kotze.

Kotze was joined by Councillor Shenan Cochrane at the scene on Sunday, May 8 and confirmed that the incident had left the families homeless and without any possessions.

“It was great to see the councillor on the ground assisting the affected community with the help of his Ward Committee, arranging temporary accommodation and assistance with donations of food, blankets and clothing,” said Cochrane.

Members of the community who are able to help with any donations towards these families getting back on their feet are encouraged to contact Councillor Kotze on 081 287 0450.

Donations:

• Wooden beams

• Corrugated iron sheets

• Food

• Clothes

Drop-off points:

• Jim and Jerry’s Driving Range on Hole-in-One Avenue in Ruimsig

2) Feather Square Kwikspar in Featherbrook