Christel House SA Blog

What began as a typical Monday morning at school changed in an instant. We were busy with the children when suddenly we were startled by a very loud BOOM! As we looked at each other, it was obvious the question on each of our minds. What was this, and where had it come from? Certainly it had been close enough to shake the classrooms.

On beyond the school is a housing area called Freedom Park. It consists mostly of very small houses built nearly on top of each other. It was there that we could see the thick black smoke billowing up towards the sky. The sound of sirens was heard, and we could see people fleeing from where the blast had just occurred. We could also see Maria, a volunteer for CHSA, racing away from the fire and smoke with her little granddaughter in her arms. Just minutes ago, she stood in our classroom. We wondered if she and her grandchild had escaped without injury. It was while our eyes were on her that another loud explosion rocked the classroom and before long, yet another.

We practically mobbed Maria as she hurried back to the school, still cradling her grandchild. We were so happy to see they were both fine, but obviously shaken. Of course we wanted to learn from her what had happened, and how the others were. She explained to us that a fire had started in one of the homes and had spread to the gas tank outside. Since the houses are situated so closely together, the fire had moved swiftly from house to house, causing a chain reaction of exploding gas tanks. Sadly, 8 homes burned down today, but thankfully, no one was hurt.

In the midst of all the chaos, some of our CH staff went to see how they could assist. They saw people running and screaming, not knowing where to go or what to do next. Those of CH set aside their own fears and safety to help salvage the few possessions that were left behind from the charred homes. Others helped the women tend to their children.

Each and every day these same people work tirelessly to serve our children at CH. Often they are the ones standing in the shadows of the teachers, yet quietly carrying out such important responsibilities for the children. On this day, they also reached outside the borders of the school to help others in need. Certainly they represent the very heart of Christel House South Africa. If you asked them what they did today, most likely they would simply say, “Oh, not much. It’s all in a day’s work.”

From those living in Freedom Park to those of us working at CHSA, we look to them with pride. They inspire us to give our personal best. We thank them for all they do. Most certainly the residents of Freedom Park must feel such gratitude to them, and I have a very strong feeling that they also now call them their friends…and their heroes.

Jan keucher
CHSA Member and Volunteer