An Arbor Park family has made a desperate appeal to the public for help after a devastating fire destroyed their home, leaving the family of four destitute.

Family spokesperson Tsepho Hlanga said the home, where the family had made countless memories over the years, was reduced to ruins after being gutted by fire.

The family managed to escape to safety but lost most of their possessions.

“The fire left nothing untouched. The roof was destroyed, the ceilings collapsed, bedrooms were gutted, and almost every possession we owned was burnt to rubble or completely damaged by the fire, smoke, and water,” explained Tsepho.

An emotional Tsepho said the family was fortunate to have escaped the fire with their lives, for which they were deeply grateful.

However, he said they now face the overwhelming challenge of having to start again from scratch.

“My mother virtually lost everything she owned in that fire.”

The Ntombela family, comprising an elderly mother, her son, and her two young granddaughters, has now turned to their community for help.

“We urgently need help in rebuilding not just a house, but a home… our home,” said an emotional Tsepho.

The family requires assistance with the following:

• Repairing and rebuilding damaged structures,
• replacing the roof and ceilings,
• electrical rewiring, plumbing repairs,
• replacing doors and windows,
• repairing and replacing flooring and painting,
• essential furniture,
• new beds and bedding,
• clothing and school essentials,
• kitchen appliances and household items,
• and temporary accommodation and daily necessities while reconstruction takes place.

Community asked to help rebuild their home

Tsepho added that the appeal was far more than just repairing a damaged building; it was about restoring a family’s safety, dignity and hope after losing everything they had.

A Back-a-Buddy crowdfunding campaign in hopes of being able to rebuild as soon as possible.”

“Any donations – big or small – will bring us one step closer to having a home we call our own.

“If you are not able to donate, then we ask that you share this campaign with your friends, family, and on your social media platforms. Every single share increases our chances of reaching those that are able to assist us.”

He continued: “From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each and every person that has already shown us kindness, generosity, and prayers during this difficult time.”

Community members wishing to assist can donate through the family’s BackaBuddy campaign at https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-my-mother-rebuild-after-a-terrible-house-fire

Or, ultimately, contact Tsepho via WhatsApp on 061 584 2805.

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