HELP: Durban business endures heartbreaking destruction, reaches out to KZN

The power of lending a hand in a time of need is what being proudly South African is truly about. 

This local business has been overwhelmed by the severe effects of the storm, resulting in flooding and landslides. Gatvol Coffee and The Neighbourhood Cafe and Bar are the two businesses on the same property that were in need of emergency assistance. 

In order to get some attention, Gatvol put out a post on their social media hoping to elicit a reaction from their community.

We spoke to Jasmin Vandersteen and Caleb Vandersteen, who are members of this family-owned and managed property. They have been at the frontline of community engagement, as well as dealing with the destruction at hand. 

Listen to their story below: 

Read More: WARNING: Severe KZN weather causing emergencies, flooding

The brother and sister duo shared with us that it all started with damaging effects to their neighbours on the same property. Sand was washed into the neighbour's property, which resulted in a landslide effect to the beautiful coffee spot, Gatvol. 

The ponds were completely overpowered by the sand and the poor koi fish had their habitat destroyed, as well as the gardens. 

Jasmin shared that it is truly heartbreaking to wake up to such destruction, especially when it is truly beyond your control. 

See some of the media that has been shared regarding the current situation they've had today:

In an effort to save their "lekker spot", they reached out to their community and people answered. Luckily, they were able to save their fish and their hard work has resulted in Gatvol coffee and the neighbours on the property being somewhat saved from the severe conditions. 

Watch their efforts below:

Read More: Umdloti community band together in a time of severe weather crisis

Caleb shared that "it is truly a pleasure to have everyone helping them in the time of need." They would also like to thank every single person in the community who shared their posts, reached out, and offered assistance. 

Sometimes the power of social media is enough to beat the challenges that have been presented. 

Let this be a lesson to us on how important community engagement is, because when a community comes together for a common goal, the result can be absolutely beautiful. 

We can't wait to enjoy a coffee in this beautiful spot in the coming future...

Image courtesy of GatVol Coffee

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