A devastating house fire has left a family without food, clothes and essentials, and a local school is begging for the community’s help.

The children, aged 16, six, and five, were left traumatised when their house burnt down on the evening of May 10.

The children, who are all learners at Middelburg Combined School, and their parents, are being temporarily housed at the school due to their dire situation.

When meeting with the Middelburg Observer last Friday, Principal Eleanor Pinetown told the paper that they are humbly requesting any donations to help the needy family.

The family lost everything in the blaze.

Any household items, including blankets, bedding, kitchen utensils, plates, and any furniture, including second-hand items, would be greatly appreciated.

The family are also in need of toiletries, food, and any clothing.

• The eldest daughter needs adult size 5 shoes and clothing sized 15–16 years.
• The middle daughter needs kids’ size 10 shoes and clothing sized 6–7 years.
• The youngest daughter needs kids’ size 9 shoes and clothing sized 5–6 years.

Kindly note, food items should be non-perishable, such as long-life milk, canned food, pap, rice, pasta, and breakfast porridge, such as oats or cereal.

A sweet treat or a packet of cookies would also bring some joy to these traumatised children.

Donations can be dropped off at the Middelburg Observer offices, 41 Meyer Street, on weekdays from 08:00.

Alternatively, contact the Middelburg Combined School on 072 040 8043/069 121 0929 to arrange for donations to be delivered to the school.