Relief Work
Relief Work in 2023
Looking towards the year 2023, we are steadfast in our commitment to provide humanitarian relief in Hout Bay. Our team is ready and dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most. When all seems lost, we strive to be there, offering essential items to each person in need.
To continue our vital work, we rely on the support of kind-hearted individuals like you. We are always in need of good quality blankets, non-perishable grocery items, toiletries, baby care items, and gently used clothing. Your donations, whether in the form of goods or financial contributions, will enable us to extend our assistance to those in need.Together, we can create a difference and bring hope to those facing challenging circumstances. Let us unite our efforts and make a positive impact on the lives of our fellow community members in Hout Bay.
Join us in our humanitarian mission and be a catalyst for change.
Fire in IY 26th March
On the evening of March 26th, a distress call was received regarding a fire in Madiba Square, IY....
Fire in IY March
In early March, a fire broke out in Aggett, Mandela Park, causing significant damage and...
Fire in IY 9th February
In the early hours of the morning, tragedy struck as 10 families became victims of a raging fire...
Relief Work in 2022
In 2022, we stood alongside residents in no less than nine fires throughout the year. While many of these incidents were swiftly extinguished through the combined efforts of residents and fire and rescue teams, we understand that any fire, regardless of its size, brings devastation to those affected. The loss of everything one owns, and the hard work invested, cannot be underestimated.
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As we continue our mission to stand by the side of fire-affected residents, we remain committed to fostering a community of support and resilience. Together, we can make a positive impact and help rebuild lives in the aftermath of these challenging events.
Once again, we extend our deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed and continue to stand with us in providing relief to those affected by fires. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated, and we are honoured to work alongside you in making a difference.
Fire in IY 27th December
On the afternoon of the 27th December a devastating fire destroyed 11 structures in Mandela Park....
Fire IY 23rd September
The recent fire incident, which resulted in the loss of hundreds of homes and tragically claimed...
Fire IY March
We have spent the week assisting families effected by a fire in Aggett, Mandela Park earlier this...
Fire IY 4th December
A fire ravaged a number of houses in Hangberg for several hours on the afternoon of Sunday, 4th...
Relief Work in 2021
In 2021, our team faced several challenging situations that required our immediate attention and response. The first incident occurred in March, when a devastating fire swept through an area in Imizamo Yethu, tragically claiming the life of a young pregnant lady. Our heartfelt sympathies went out to her family, friends, and loved ones during the difficult time.
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Throughout the year, we continued to provide assistance and support to families affected by fires in both Hangberg and Imizamo Yethu. In total, we responded to five separate instances, offering relief items such as blankets, toiletries, grocery parcels, baby packs, clothing, and small household items generously donated by the community. Our efforts reached over 300 individuals who had been left destitute by devastating fires throughout the year.
We are immensely grateful for the support and partnership we receive from the community, churches and local retailers. The contributions and assistance have been invaluable in our relief efforts. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated and supported us in our mission.
We would also like to express our appreciation to the South African Red Cross Society (Western Cape), and The Bay City Church for their contributions, for providing grocery buckets as part of our relief offering to the victims of the August fire in Imizamo Yethu. Additionally, we are grateful to the City of Cape Town Disaster Management, Law Enforcement, and SAPS for their assistance in maintaining the necessary social distance and adhering to COVID protocols during our operations.
Together, through collaboration and support, we have been able to make a difference in the lives of those affected by these devastating incidents. Our commitment to providing assistance and relief remains unwavering, and we will continue to work tirelessly to support our community in times of need.
Fire in IY 8th March
Such tragedy, as the fire on the evening of the 8th March not only destroyed a number of homes,...
Fire in Hangberg 4th December
A fire ravaged a number of houses in Hangberg for several hours on the afternoon of Sunday, 4th...
Fire in IY 23rd September
In response to this tragedy, the dedicated team at Thula Thula sprang into action. We spent the...
Fire in IY 15th August
Our team was onsite first thing on the morning of the 15th August, witnessing the devastating...
Relief Work in 2020
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic added an additional layer of complexity to our relief operations. We embraced this challenge wholeheartedly, adapting our distribution methods to comply with stringent protocols. We set up outdoor facilities and organized small groups with social distancing measures in place to ensure the safety of all involved.
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We are continually inspired by the willingness of individuals and communities to come together and support those in need. The generous donations, tireless community efforts, and partnerships we have formed with organizations such as CCP, City of Cape Town, Disaster Risk Management, Law Enforcement Services, and SAPS, highlight the power of unity and compassion.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported us and continue to stand alongside us on this journey of compassion and resilience. Together, we make a difference in the lives of those affected by fire incidents, providing much-needed relief and hope for a brighter future.
Fire in IY 6th September
In September a devastating fire destroyed over 400 structures in Imizamo Yethu. The relief efforts...
Storm Damage 20st August
In August, we were called upon to assist 22 families whose homes were destroyed by a fierce Cape...
Fire in IY 5th July
Early Sunday 5 July, a devastating fire engulfed Madiba Square an area in Imizamo Yethu. The fire...
Fire in IY 6th January
Early in 2020, our team was called into action when a fire broke out on the 6th of January. We...
Relief Work in 2019
We are thankful to our generous donors who continue to support our efforts in assisting the affected residents.
Fire IY February
Shortly after 10am, yesterday morning reports of a fire in Imizamo Yethu were received. The fire...
Relief Work in 2018
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At Thula Thula, we understand the importance of ongoing support in maintaining the safety and well-being of the community. We remain committed to our mission of preventing fires, providing assistance during crises, and creating a supportive network for those in need.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by fires. Your support empowers us to continue our vital work and ensure a brighter future for our community.
Fire in IY 19th October
In the early hours of this morning, reports were received of a raging fire in Hangberg. In...
Fire in IY 6th February
Early hours of this morning a fire was reported in the upper areas of IY (Donsiyake). Despite...
Fire in IY 22nd August
After a fire on the 22nd August registered and offered support to 19 families who tragically lost...
Fire in IY 2nd July
Around midday this afternoon, a distress call was received from the Molokwane St area of IY,...
Fire in IY 12th February
In the early hours of this morning, a distressing fire incident was reported in the upper area of...
Fire in IY 14th October
Around approximately 8 AM, a fire broke out in the upper area of IY, resulting in the destruction...
Relief Work in 2017
In 2017 we responded to in excess of 11 fires and 2 flood and storm damage incidents, assisting over 12 000 people with immediate relief and support.
The year will forever be marked by the fire that started in the early hours of the 11th of March, what began as a small fire quickly transformed into the most destructive informal housing fire ever witnessed in the Western Cape. Unrelenting for over 12 hours, the flames left a trail of devastation, leaving more than 10,000 people with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
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The outpouring of support we witnessed was nothing short of awe-inspiring. In the midst of their own despair, people rallied together to provide aid and comfort. It was a testament to the indomitable spirit of compassion and unity. While countless lives were shattered by the tragic loss, the community found solace in the overwhelming support received.
We will forever be grateful to every person who played a role in the relief and support efforts. From the courageous front-line firefighters who battled tirelessly against the elements, to the corporate donors, and each dedicated volunteer who persevered under the scorching summer heat during massive relief distributions days. Every contribution, no matter how small, played an integral part in making the extensive relief efforts possible.
In the face of adversity, we witnessed the power of collective action. The resilience and generosity displayed by our community reaffirmed our belief in the strength of humanity. As we continue to rebuild and recover, we carry with us the profound gratitude for everyone who stepped up and stepped out, demonstrating that together, we can overcome even the greatest challenges.
Fire in Hangberg 20th October
At approximately 8 AM, a fire incident was reported in Hangberg. Thanks to the swift action of the...
Fire in Hangberg 3rd September
In the early hours of, residents of the Texas, Hangberg reported a fire incident. The fire and...
Fire in IY 20th August
Shortly before 8 PM, an urgent call alerted us to a fire outbreak in Madiba Square, towards the...
Fire in IY 11th August
Shortly after 10 PM on the evening of 11th, a fire incident was reported in the Disa temporary...
Fire in IY 8th July
In the early hours of the morning on July 8th, a distressing incident occurred in the uppermost...
Fire in Hangberg 2nd July
In the early hours of the morning, distressing reports emerged of a fire in Hangberg. Our team...
Fire in IY 25th June
On the afternoon of the 25th June a fire was reported in the "Disa" area of IY. Tragically, five...
Fire in IY 27th May
On the 27 May 2017 we were called to respond to a fire in the area of Zola Square, sadly there was...
Fire in IY 16th April
In the early hours of 16 April, a fire erupted in the upper area of IY, presenting a daunting...
Fire in IY 11th March
During the early hours of 11 March 2017, an incident unfolded that would forever be etched in the...
Fire in Hangberg 20th March
On the evening of 20 March, the community of Hangberg were confronted with a devastating fire. ...
Floods in IY 7th June
During the powerful storm that struck on 7th June, approximately 10 structures were destroyed, and...
Relief Work in 2016
Making a Difference: Our Impact in 2016
In 2016, the Thula Thula team answered the call to assist in eight distinct incidents, leaving a lasting impact on the communities we serve. Throughout the year, fires wreaked havoc in Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg, affecting countless individuals and families.
Our ability to support the residents of these areas is solely made possible by the incredible generosity of volunteers and donors. The contributions of clothing, goods, groceries, toiletries, and financial support enable us to not only meet immediate needs but also acquire essential items that are not readily donated. In many cases, the ability to purchase high-quality blankets has proven to be invaluable.
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Every donation and act of kindness we receive goes a long way in providing hope and restoring stability for those facing adversity. Together, we are creating positive change and bringing comfort to those who need it most.
Fire in IY 22 June
Thula Thula was on site on the 22nd June to assist those who lost their homes in a fire in...
Fire in IY 26 December
8 homes were destroyed in the early hours of the morning of the 26th December. The team were on...
Fire in IY 12 December
Many residents lost everything in a fire that occurred during the evening of the 12th December,...
Fire in IY 21 November
Around 8pm on Monday the 21st November a fire destroyed a number of houses in Aggett street. Fire...
Fire in Hangberg 3 September
12 homes where gutted in a fire in Hangberg, during the evening of the 3rd September. We assisted...
Fire in IY 5 June
A number of houses destroyed in a fire in Imizamo Yethu during the evening of the 5th June....
Fire in IY 27 February
Early hours of the morning of the 27th February a devastating fire broke out in the higher areas...
Fire in IY 01 February
On the afternoon of the 1st February a fire broke out on the upper slopes of Imizamo Yethu. We...
Relief Work in 2015
Our journey began less than four weeks after starting the organization when we received a call on the afternoon of the 12th November. A fire had broken out in Imizamo Yethu, the fire and rescue teams where on scene battling a fire that destroyed a number of homes.
This was our first introduction to the community and an opportunity to demonstrate the impact of our vision and mission in action. We swiftly responded and provided aid to over 200 residents who had been impacted by the fire.
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Unfortunately, tragedy struck again a few weeks later in the community of Hangberg when two families lost everything in another devastating fire.
As the year unfolded, we faced yet another heart-breaking incident. On the evening of 26th December, a massive fire ravaged through the area of Xola Square. The fire was particularly devastating, as many residents were away for the holiday season and the windy conditions fuelled its rapid spread. Over the next three days, our team worked tirelessly to register over 1000 fire victims and mobilized our efforts to provide relief on the largest scale we had encountered thus far.
During the year, we learned valuable lessons that helped us improve our systems and processes. We enhanced our registration system and streamlined our sorting, packing, and distribution procedures. In 2015, we successfully offered relief to over 1 470 people, None of which would have been possible without the incredible support we received from the community. The willingness of many to lend a helping hand and volunteer their time and services when given the opportunity was truly inspiring. We extend our deepest gratitude to The Rotary Club Hout Bay, Asad and his team at BP Hout Bay, Simon and his team from Hout Bay Super Spar, Blue Ribbon, JAM Nutrition, Oakhurst qwik Spar, Pick n Pay Hout Bay, Stratdev Global, the Save Foundation, as well as the children from Rainbow Dreams Trust and Hout Bay International School.
The experiences of that year shaped our organization, and we continue to strive for excellence in providing immediate relief and support to those affected by fires. We remain grateful to all those who believed in us and shared our vision. Together, we can make a difference and offer hope to those facing unimaginable challenges.
Fire IY 8th November
Since our inception, Thula Thula has been committed to providing immediate assistance and relief...
Fire in IY 12th November
On the afternoon of 12 November a fire was reported in Imizamo Yethu.The team spent many hours on...
Fire Sentinel December
The slopes of the Sentinel in Hout Bay saw over 100 fire fighters battle a blaze for a number of...
Fire Hangberg 27th November
27 November - Early hours of the morning a fire broke out in Hangberg, destroying 2 homes and...
Fire in IY 26th December Boxing Day
At approximately 23:40 on the 26 December a fire was reported in the area of Xola Square, Imizamo...
Get involved
Whether you are a passionate volunteer or a corporate company seeking to invest in corporate and social responsibility, we invite you to be a part of our impactful journey. Together, we can bring positive change to the lives of those in need and contribute to a brighter future for Hout Bay and beyond.