A devastating fire tore through the Westlake informal settlement in Cape Town late on Thursday night, leaving several families homeless and without basic necessities.
The blaze reportedly broke out around 23:20 with firefighters responding swiftly to contain the flames.
Despite their efforts, between 12 and 20 shacks were destroyed, displacing numerous residents.
Community Devastated
Ward 71 Councillor Carolynne Franklin confirmed the extent of the destruction and has issued an urgent call for public assistance, noting that the affected families have lost all their possessions.
“These families now have nothing – no clothes, no food, no shelter. They need our help now more than ever,” said Franklin.
Residents are being asked to donate essential items, including:
- Blankets and clothing for adults and children
- Non-perishable food: tins, rice, pasta, maize meal, oil, long-life milk
- Basic groceries: potatoes, onions, tomatoes, salt, brown onion soup, stock cubes
- Protein sources: peanut butter, jam, frozen chicken
- Fresh bread and bottled water
- Toiletries and baby items: nappies, formula, wet wipes (for two toddlers)
🟢 Drop-off location:
14 Myrtle Road, Tokai (please contact Cessi on 082 900 1832 before arriving)
🟢 Retail collection point:
Pick n Pay, Steenberg Village (donations trolley available in-store)
🟢 Financial donations:
Managed by Tokai Neighbourhood Crime Watch (TNCW) – contributions can be made via their SnapScan link.
A Call for Solidarity
Franklin emphasised the importance of community support in this time of need.
“Any help, big or small, will go directly to families affected by the fire. Thank you for standing with the Westlake community in this urgent time.”
Any suggestions to help prevent these all-too-frequent fires in informal settlements?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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