7 June, 2017
Months of prolonged drought collided with 80+ kph winds from the worst storm in Western Cape in 30 years to produce ripe conditions for extreme fires. On 7 June, 2017 wildfires lit on all sides of Knysna, producing what would become 26 separate fires, destroying an estimated 600+ homes, killing 5 thus far, and forcing at least 10,000 residents to evacuate to the beach or to islands in our lagoon.
The fire has decimated countless hectares of what was once beautiful "fynbos" vegetation. The smoldering scene resembles the aftermath of a fiery battle. The scarred remains of homes, restaurants, and businesses attack the senses and appear somewhat unreal, something one might see in a war movie.
The wind-driven fire has seemingly chosen random targets to consume in its anger, while leaving other structures completely untouched. The residents of Knysna are left stunned and grieving. Some of us have been spared with no loss at all, while others have lost all of their earthly possessions. Still others have lost their businesses and livelihoods. Our entire Knysna Hope team is safe.
As we grieve with our community, we now must consider how best to care for those most affected by this disaster. Many are already donating food, drinking water, clothing, and blankets. In our estimation, dislocated people need cash. We plan to assist with gift cards from local chains, enabling people to purchase what they need, not what we think they need. 100% of fund received will be given to families who have been displaced. Please consider giving to those most affected by this disaster. Below are instructions for sending cash gifts:
The fire has decimated countless hectares of what was once beautiful "fynbos" vegetation. The smoldering scene resembles the aftermath of a fiery battle. The scarred remains of homes, restaurants, and businesses attack the senses and appear somewhat unreal, something one might see in a war movie.
The wind-driven fire has seemingly chosen random targets to consume in its anger, while leaving other structures completely untouched. The residents of Knysna are left stunned and grieving. Some of us have been spared with no loss at all, while others have lost all of their earthly possessions. Still others have lost their businesses and livelihoods. Our entire Knysna Hope team is safe.
As we grieve with our community, we now must consider how best to care for those most affected by this disaster. Many are already donating food, drinking water, clothing, and blankets. In our estimation, dislocated people need cash. We plan to assist with gift cards from local chains, enabling people to purchase what they need, not what we think they need. 100% of fund received will be given to families who have been displaced. Please consider giving to those most affected by this disaster. Below are instructions for sending cash gifts:
US/Canada GiftsCalvary Baptist Church
1380 S. Valley Forge Road Lansdale PA 19446. Mark the check for "Knysna Relief" |
South Africa GiftsEFT to: Knysna Hope
First National Bank branch code: 250655 Account Number: 62594087639 Mark it for "Knysna Relief" |
