A matron at Engo Aged Care Senekal, Bets Niewenhuis, told News24 on Thursday that people from other towns in the country had offered to help with water.

She said she had pleaded for help on Facebook and the response was overwhelming.

The town has not had running water since December 14.

"We are coping with the crisis. The response from other towns and cities which include Colesberg, Durban, Reitz and Bloemfontein has been overwhelming. The municipality helps us with water every second day when they can. The army from Bethlehem also brings us water, which is a big relief," she said.

She said the home needed at least 10 000 litres a day to bath and take care of its elderly residents.

Niewenhuis said, not only was she grateful for the donations, but they opted to share the water they received with other community members.

"This is a national crisis, so we have to share with other people. We believe that we are all in this together."

She said when schools re-opened next week, the home would also assist with water.

Meanwhile, Francine Pretorius, who owns Watertand Bakery, said she was impressed that people from afar were so willing to help.

"Holidaymakers have heard our cries and delivered litres of water on their way back home – however it becomes a problem when they ask to use a toilet! Our situation is bad and the heat is not helping at all."

Due to the water crisis, shops, restaurants and petrol stations have started putting up "no toilets" signs.

Pretorius said she also bought water from local farmers who have boreholes, at 15c a litre, to keep her business running.

-News24.com