A strata council member from Zaan Townhomes in Newton, where a fire destroyed five homes and damaged seven more on Monday (June 30) has set up a campaign online to raise help for displaced residents, some who were left with little else but the clothing they were wearing.
"Tragically, several of the affected families did not have insurance and have lost everything 鈥� their homes, belongings, keepsakes, and a sense of safety," Manjeet Toor said.
By Thursday morning the campaign had reached 80 per cent of its $9,000 goal, with 60 donations made.
"These are hardworking families 鈥� parents, children, seniors 鈥� who now face the unimaginable challenge of starting over with no safety net. Many are in need of immediate essentials like food, clothing, shelter, and support for rebuilding."
Surrey Fire Service firefighters were called to the 65-unit complex in the 7100-block of 144 Street shortly after 4 p.m. to fight the fire, which also took the clubhouse. "And then there were more than a few that had their siding melted and stuff from the heat," Toor said.
His unit was spared.
"There's also three units that don't have content insurance so we're going to try to prioritize them a little bit more."
Some have gone to hotels while others are staying with family.
The blaze sent up smoke visible in New Westminster and elsewhere, with 45 firefighters and 15 trucks fighting the three-alarm fire late into the evening.
Assistant Fire Chief Darren Major said the fire is not considered to be suspicious but the investigation is still underway.
"Nothing leading in that regard but we're still trying to sort out through some of the evidence. At this point it's not suspicious," he said Thursday.
"It did evolve from the balconies where there was barbecues on there," Major said, but added "there's nothing to support that the fire started from the barbecue."
