Although White River was saddened by the fire that destroyed its beloved Picasso’s Mexican Taqueria, a little elf called HIC Underwriting Managers plans not only to help restore the building, but also to support the staff who lost their income.

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The company gifted nearly 30 staff members with R200 food vouchers to help them through the festive season, when their income would normally be boosted by holiday crowds, service shifts and festive-season tips.

“We have stepped in to support the affected staff with a small gesture to help them through the busiest time of the year,” Nadia van Wyk, HIC Nelspruit branch manager said.

The organisation is actively working on the restaurant’s insurance claim with the aim of getting Picasso’s up and running as soon as possible so that the team can return to work.

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The staff members were overjoyed when they received the vouchers and there were big smiles all around.

“We are truly hugely grateful to all the members of our community and people like Nadia from HIC for their generosity and kindness in a time of uncertainty and crisis. We’ve started cleaning up the site and will definitely be back stronger and better than before,” said Garth Snyman, co-owner of the restaurant.