On 19 July, the Orange Farm United Taxi Association (OFUTA) and Ward 5 Cllr Mxolisi Ndzondo came to the aid of the Mavuso family in Ext 8a after a fire destroyed their home. OFUTA donated paint, windows, doors and electrical wiring to repair the home.
Thandi Mavuso’s two children escaped unharmed, while she suffered minor burns to her hand, mouth and nose.
She shared with Orange Farm News, “The fire was caused by a candle; there was no electricity, so I think my child forgot to blow it out. The fire destroyed the kitchen and dining room. I’m grateful to our neighbours who rushed to our aid, breaking the door and windows to save us. Thank you to OFUTA, Cllr Ndzondo and the volunteers for their help. We really appreciate it.”
Cllr Ndzondo said: “After hearing about this family’s ordeal, I reached out to OFUTA for assistance and they responded immediately. I’m pleased that the Mavuso home is being repaired. OFUTA is always there for the community and I appreciate their support. As we celebrate Mandela Day, it’s vital to spend 67 minutes helping others and that’s what we did. Thanks also to branch chairperson John Ramaphosa and the VD volunteers for their contributions.”
OFUTA chairperson, Joseph Ngubane, said: “When Cllr Ndzondo informed us of this family’s situation, we were deeply moved and felt compelled to help. Giving back to our community is essential. We are pleased to see the house being repaired. During Mandela Day, we’ve spent our 67 minutes in various ways, including a soup kitchen and donating sanitary towels and bath cloths. We are following Nelson Mandela’s values of caring for the less fortunate.”
