The Eastridge family who buried seven of their relatives who burnt to death in a house fire are giving a thanksgiving lunch to sponsors and community members who supported them during the tragedy.
Patrick Abrahams, 54, who lost three children and three grandchildren in the fire at their home in Macbeth Street, Eastridge, Mitchells Plain, on June 12, is hosting a lunch for 200 people on Friday at 6pm at the Don Carlos Community Centre with the help of local ward councillor, Solomons Philander.
Alfonso Swartz, 35, his daughter Tamia Swartz, 22 months, Tamia’s siblings Cameron Fredericks, six, Elmarie Fredericks, five, their cousins, also siblings, Nikita Abrahams, three, Joshua Abrahams, 13, Kyle Abrahams, 18, and their cousin, Arafaat Madatt, 14, all died in the fire.
Four other people, Patrick, the owner of the house, his ex-wife Verona Abrahams, 52, their daughters Gloria Abrahams, 31, Shanice Abrahams, 22, and friends Nawaal Erasmus, 23, and Lance Minnies, 16 survived.
Patrick’s sister, Noleen Momberg tells the Daily Voice the lunch is dedicated to everyone who supported them which includes the City’s Mayoral Committee member for safety and security, JP Smith, to disaster management, family and neighbours.
“There are just too many names to mention,” says Noleen.
“This is a lunch dedicated to thank everyone who sponsored and even those who were there for us...”