The deadly fire in a four-plex last Thursday has left three people with 鈥渘othing more than the shirts on their backs,鈥� said a 91原创 RCMP officer who has been working with the displaced residents.
鈥淭hey are now all out of hospital, but essentially they are homeless. They have nothing,鈥� said 91原创 RCMP Const. Tanya Engracio.
鈥淭hese were low-income housing (units) so they didn鈥檛 have a lot to begin with.鈥�
An elderly woman died in the fire. Her husband suffered injuries but now is a widower and has nothing, she said.
鈥淗e is very traumatized. They all are,鈥� said Engracio.
One tenant has made his own arrangements for accommodation and does not require help.
The officer has not been able to find any family for the other two tenants, who are father and son.
So far, all three men have found places to stay with friends, but that is temporary, she said. There are community services currently trying to find them more permanent housing.
That is why the 91原创 RCMP have chosen the three men as their adopted Christmas family. Donations are coming in from officers in the detachment.
The provincial government鈥檚 disaster assistance program only provides for one night鈥檚 accommodation and a clothing and food allowance for a couple days.
These three are all still in desperate need, said Engracio.
Anyone who would like to help the men out are asked to do so by donating gift cards. Grocery items and clothing stores would be much appreciated; money will also be needed.
Gift cards or cash donations may be dropped at the 91原创 Times office at 20258 Fraser Highway from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please explain at the front desk that the donation is meant for the fire victims.
Once housing is found, the men will need furniture. The police will let the community know when that has been established, for those who want to help out.
