A family was traumatised after their home went up in flames at the intersection of Oosthuise and Bothma Street on 4 March.

The Highvelder published an article ‘Tragedy strikes’ in the newspaper on 12 March.

Ms Amanda de Jager, daughter-in-law of Ms Annetjie de Jager (73), owner of the house, said that after the community read the article, they reached out to the family to sympathise and also made generous donations.

She added that they still get overwhelmed when they go to the house daily to look after and feed their dogs.

ALSO READ: House on the Corner of Oosthuise and Bothma Street in Ermelo goes up in flames

All the support from the community on the day of the fire still brings forward emotions of gratitude, as they did not expect so many people to lend a helping hand.

“We have lived in town for years and gained a lot of respect for the community for their kindness in our hour of desperation.

“We never expected the community to help our family in the way they did and for that, we will forever be grateful,” Amanda also said.

The toughest thing for the family on that day, was losing most of their valuables because there was not enough water available to completely extinguish the fire.

ALSO SEE: GALLERY – House in Ermelo up in flames

The homeowner is of the opinion that if there were sufficient water, there might not have been as much damage to their property.

According to Amanda, her mother-in-law is still in anguish over the whole ordeal.

“One minute she’ll be fine and the next she’s in tears.”

Read the complete article in the Highvelder newspaper.