Family of Lisbon Avenue fire receive giant cheque to help with their rebuilding efforts

]Setting a course for a new life requires releasing the anchor of tragedy.

Six weeks after her home was destroyed by fire, Gabi Segopa received the soothing comfort of community support. Powered by BCI Security, supported by the LIFCO residents association, and amplified by Leroy Merlin Little Falls, a fresh start is now possible. Gabi and her family were invited to the Hendrik Potgieter Road hardware and home store to receive something to help get life back on track.

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BCI Security and LIFCO rallied their friends and supporters, raising R8 275 and R3 725, respectively. Leroy Merlin stepped up to double those contributions and together they gifted Gabi and her family with R22 000. This, as well as further in-store Leroy Merlin discounts, will help rebuild the Lisbon Avenue home that burnt down on March 10.
“For Leroy Merlin, the community is part of our existence,” said Leroy Merlin’s Nicolette Podile who helped coordinate the relief gesture.

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LIFCO has built a strong relationship with the DIY outlet and the corporate has made an effort to be a positive force for their community.

“We collectively felt the shock and horror that vibrated through the community. Thank you to Leroy Merlin for your willingness to always help with our community projects and thanks to BCI, it is very special to share a community with empathetic people like yourselves,” said LIFCO chairperson, Claire Fauchet.

Helen MacDonald drove the donation campaign with BCI’s blessing and Claire described her as ‘magnetic’ in thanking her for her invaluable role.

“Without this wonderful community, nobody would be here today. Through these weeks I have gotten to know your family and love your family. It is incredible to see the family’s strength throughout this ordeal,” Helen said to Gabi.

BCI’s Public Relations Manager, Paul Catlett, described the moving events of the last six weeks, saying “I can remember that day firsthand dealing with a distraught woman. I am so glad to see a smile on your face. We are humbled by the fact so many people from the suburb participated in this drive, it brings home the spirit of Ubuntu.”

Gabi and her family have been carried in the thoughts of their community and can now be released to more promising days ahead.

Speaking for a family outpouring with tears of joy, Gabi said, “I did not know how I would recover but you gave me hope that it is possible. Your love and support are what have kept me alive. Thank you all so much for what you have down for us.”