Children of Fire brings joy to burn survivors in Kimberley

AFRICA'S first burns charity, Children of Fire, recently conducted an outreach in Kimberley aimed at supporting burn survivors and raising awareness around burn prevention.

The organisation, which works across Africa to prevent burn injuries and uplift survivors through practical action and education, visited several healthcare facilities earlier this month. Toiletries, toys, books and gifts were handed over to patients and healthcare workers at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital, Lenmed Royal Hospital and Heart Centre, and Warrenton Community Health Centre.

The toys were donated by residents of Castletown in England and Wick in Northern Scotland, and were transported more than 11,000 kilometres to South Africa by the charity’s founder and director, Bronwen Jones.

As part of the visit, youth ambassadors Letty Ndimande, 7, Rien ne dit Kasongom, 12, and Kutlwano Kekana, 15, led an educational stop at the Kimberley fire station. Firefighters gave the children a demonstration on firefighting and discussed the causes of burn injuries, reinforcing the charity’s focus on prevention.

An impromptu mini fire drill was later arranged at Human Auto Ford when the charity’s vehicle required repairs. During the visit, the children and 60 staff members were presented with gifts.

The programme also included a visit to the Kimberley Big Hole, giving the young ambassadors an opportunity to experience one of the city’s landmarks.

Looking ahead, Children of Fire is arranging an international climbing expedition for teenage burn survivors. Parents and teachers of children currently aged between 11 and 17 are encouraged to email firechildren@icon.co.za for more information.