LISTEN: Outpouring of support following Durban children's home fire
Community activists and ordinary residents have sprung into action following the devastating fire at the Edith Benson Children's Home in Durban's Sherwood area.
A fire tore through the single-storey building last night. 57 children were safely evacuated.
Emergency services say one person was treated for smoke inhalation. Heather Rorick is with the Bulwer Safety and Urban Regeneration Forum in Glenwood. She says the response from residents across the city has been incredible.
"I must say the response has been absolutely amazing. People have rallied to help in a short space of time - to get blankets, clothing and food for the babies and it was just overwhelming. I was so proud at that moment to be a South African.
"When we got to the Overport drop-off point - eThekwini Secure were coordinating at the Overport Shell garage. It was amazing to see the vehicles - packed with donations - pulling in," he says.
ALSO READ: Firefighters tell of 'rapid spread of fire' at Durban children's home
Meanwhile, local NGOs are also coming to the assistance of the children's home. The Maritzburg-based Gift of the Givers is putting together an aid package to assist with the children's immediate needs.
The group's Imtiaz Sooliman says they'll meet with the home's director this morning.
"We are this morning hoping to engage with the director of the home to tell us what they require. Whilst saying that - we have put aside a R250 000 package to support them whether it's a cot or a blanket, mattresses or baby bottles, and food items - whatever they require. It will sustain them for a few months not just for a few days," he says.
You can listen to Shaun Ryan's full interview with Heather Rorick below: