Flooding disaster victims get help

Hundreds of victims of flooding in various townships across the province received gas stoves, gas cylinders and food parcels at a function attended by Deputy Human Settlements Minister Tandi Mahambehlala in Philippi on Tuesday.

They filled a marquee at the Vuyiseka Sports Field and sang with joy as the goods - which had been donated by the Gift of the Givers charity and a petroleum company among others - were handed out.

The gas stoves would be much safer than relying on illegal and dangerous electricity connections, said Ms Mahambehlala.

“We know that the beneficiaries are not only benefiting themselves but their families are benefiting as well,” she said, adding that some of the beneficiaries had been found to be child-headed homes.

“Human Settlements are at the centre of ensuring that people have decent houses and residents are assisting through disaster interventions,” she said, but noted that government could not help all those in need without the help of private entities.

Gift of the Givers project manager Ali Sablay said more than 200 000 people had been affected by the winter flooding in the province and no informal settlements had been spared.

One of the recipients, Nokuthula Kwaza, said she was thrilled to receive help, and added that the gas cylinders lasted a little longer than electricity and were safer.