Four Manenberg families are homeless after a fire ripped through their homes on Saturday, leaving them with only the clothes on their backs.
Grandparents Selvyn and Annabelle Johannes say they watched helplessly as the council house, in which they have lived for several years, and three Wendy houses were destroyed, leaving the family of 17 running for their lives.
Ouma Annabelle, 52, says they were asleep when a neighbour shouted for them to wake up as one of the three Wendy houses in their backyard was on fire.
She explains: “It was so frightening, it was just after 5am when we heard the neighbour shouting.
“When we went to look, the flames were everywhere. Everyone just ran to get out and we are still wearing the clothes we were sleeping in.
Picture: Monique Duval
“There are eight children and nine adults who live on the property. We have lived here most of our lives because our parents were moved here from Plumstead.
“Everyone just ran for their lives and we are happy that nobody was hurt.”
Selvyn, 55, says he tried to save his puppy, Rooney, but could not get to him in time.
PLEA: Selvyn and Annabelle. Picture: Supplied
“He was a Jack Russel and we only had him for two weeks. I tried, but I could not get to him.”
Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, says firefighters extinguished the fire at 6.59am.
The cause of the blaze is unknown.
Picture: Supplied
The family is appealing for help to rebuild their homes and are in need of water, food, bedding, clothing and uniforms for the children. If you would like to help, call Selvyn on 082 470 1147
.