Fire victims receive school uniforms ahead of new school week
Waldhausen said that through co-ordinated efforts, they were able to provide much-needed assistance to the affected community.
Twenty-four school pupils from the Jika Joe Informal Settlement, whose school uniforms were destroyed in a fire earlier this month, will begin the new school week with brand-new uniforms on Monday.
Msunduzi Association of Residents, Ratepayers and Civics (MARRC) CEO Anthony Waldhausen said that, with the assistance of the Khuleleni Children Trust, the organisation had previously donated five school uniforms.
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On Saturday, the trust donated uniforms for two more pupils, while IFP PR Councillor Shamiell Alliey donated 22 uniforms.
Waldhausen said that through co-ordinated efforts, they were able to provide much-needed assistance to the affected community.
“Marrc responded to a call for help and launched a donation campaign on its Facebook page on July 12. The campaign was coordinated with the assistance of Baby Pillay, Michael Pillay and Zodwa Ngcobo from the Brookside Corridor Civic Association (BCCA),” said Waldhausen.
Marrc received an overwhelming response from residents and religious institutions, which donated food, water, clothing, blankets and school uniforms.
Alliey said it was important to support the pupils, as it would contribute to their brighter future.
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“My heart goes out to each one of you. I hope these new uniforms bring you comfort and help you return to school with confidence. We wish you strength as you rebuild,” said Alliey.
Remember that you are not alone we stand with you. Keep believing in yourselves and never give up on your dreams.
Jika Joe community member Zodwa Ngcobo said residents were grateful that the pupils would now be properly dressed for school.
“It has been a difficult time for us. People have lost everything and are trying to rebuild their lives. We are truly thankful for these uniforms,” said Ngcobo.
“We still need food donations, as many families remain without enough to eat, including those who have returned home.”
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Earlier this month, a fire swept through the Jika Joe Informal Settlement, affecting more than 400 households and claiming the lives of two people.