A Bhekuzulu family is appealing for help after their home was destroyed in a fire last week, leaving them with nothing but the clothes they were wearing.

The Khanyile family, of Mphelandaba Street, watched helplessly as flames engulfed their house shortly before midday. The fire destroyed the entire structure, leaving the family traumatised and displaced.

Children struggling to come to terms with tragedy

Family member Sibonisile Khanyile described the whole ordeal as heart-breaking.

“We are beyond devastated. The house was gutted within minutes and everything we owned was destroyed.

“The children are having a very difficult time coping with what happened.”

She explained that one of the children, a high school learner, witnessed the fire as it unfolded.

“He was in tears. The two younger children, who are in primary school, left for school that morning with everything normal. When they returned, their home had been reduced to ashes.

“They have many questions and we do not know how to answer them.”

Community support welcomed

Sibonisile said the family is now appealing to the Vryheid community and beyond for any form of assistance.

“We lost everything, from our clothing and furniture to household essentials. Any donation, no matter how small, will make a difference.”

Community members and neighbours rushed to the scene and assisted where they could, but the flames spread fast and were difficult to contain.

Family focused on rebuilding

“While we appreciate that the firefighters responded to the scene and did what they could, it was heart-breaking to watch our home burn down.

“From where we stood, it seemed there was not enough water to combat a fire of that size.

“We felt helpless and, to be honest, let down by the situation.

“However, we do not want to criticise anyone personally because we understand they were trying to do their job. Right now, our focus is on rebuilding our lives after losing everything,” Sibonisile added.

Urgent need for donations

The family has expressed gratitude to local businesses, churches, schools, organisations, community members and individuals who have already provided support and essential items.

However, they are still in urgent need of more help, including building materials, clothing, food, blankets, school uniforms and financial contributions.

Anyone wishing to assist can contact Sibonisile Khanyile on 078 023 2187.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.