Support Kicks in After the Kayamandi Fire Disaster

On 16 March 2013 the Western Cape Minister for Social Development, Mr Albert Fritz visited the Kayamandi Community in Stellenbosch, in the aftermath of the devastating fire that left thousands of people homeless and destitute.

The Department of Social Development immediately mobilised disaster relief assistance in the form of hot meals, clothing, blankets etc. Trauma counselling was also made available to those who needed further support in the wake of this disaster.

At least two disabled persons were identified in this community and the Minister immediately instructed officials to prioritise them for assisted living support through our persons living with disabilities programme.

The destruction was evident, but the spirit in which people were coming together to assist one another in rebuilding their basic structures, sharing supplies and watching over the few possessions that could be salvaged, is what really touched the Minister.

Both the provincial and local government are involved in disaster relief aid, but the Minister is also appealing to businesses in the area to come on board and assist this community in any way they can.