A fire destroyed a community creche in Finetown on Saturday, 16 May, leaving classrooms and learning materials gutted but sparing nearby homes.
According to creche owner Connie Lekale, the fire was discovered after smoke was seen coming from the building. Upon entering, she found the rooms already engulfed in flames. With no immediate assistance on site, Lekale began fighting the fire using buckets of water. Neighbors responded quickly to her call and assisted with additional water while awaiting emergency services.
During the incident, Lekale unknowingly inhaled a significant amount of smoke. After exiting the building, she collapsed outside. She later regained consciousness and is currently recovering.
Preliminary reports indicate that an electrical fault in the main switch box may have caused the fire. “The entire rooms were already on fire. Most of my clothes and my sons’ belongings got burned because his room is also linked to the creche,” Lekale said.
All resources inside the creche were destroyed, including chairs, educational materials, books, toys, and charts. While the fire did not spread to Lekale’s home or neighboring properties, the facility remains operational, but urgently needs donations and support to replace lost equipment and materials for the children. “I don’t know what to do from here. I seek donors and sponsors to come on board and assist,” she added.
Community members have described the creche as a vital resource for working families in Finetown. Appeals are now being made for financial contributions, educational materials, furniture, and other support to help rebuild the facility and restore services to the children.
For inquiries regarding donations and support, please contact the creche directly through community channels in Finetown.
