Gift of the Givers is one of the organisations that joined hands with the government to assist residents who lost their houses, cars and more following the incident that took place early on 11 September 2022.  

Accompanied by the Premier of the Free State, Sisi Ntombela, the communication officer of the organisation, Corene Conradie, says as the largest non-governmental disaster organisation they had to return and provide food parcels to affected residents as early Christmas gifts.  

"Today we are here with 500 food parcels for 200 families that have been directly affected and 300 families that have been partially affected. This is our second visit to Jagersfontein to assist the affected families. We will also be coming back in January to distribute some stationery to 600 children and school shoes as well," adds Conradie.

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Jagersfontein was declared a provincial disaster area weeks after the incident had occurred. A decision was taken by the National Disaster Management Centre following vigorous consultations with the provincial government. Residents have since been provided with alternative accommodation.

ALSO READ: Search for missing Jagersfontein disaster victim called off

Meanwhile, disaster management teams remain on alert to respond to any hints or changes in circumstances regarding the last body that is yet to be recovered. The farmers and community are urged to continue monitoring their areas and share information about discoveries with emergency services.

OFM News