St. Norbert community rallies for neighbours who lost homes in fire

WINNIPEG – Family, friends, and even strangers dropped off clothes and household items at the St. Norbert Community Centre for two families who were left homeless after a fire ripped through their homes Wednesday.

One of the homes in St. Norbert was destroyed by the fire that may have started in its garage, and the neighbouring house also caught fire after flames spread to the attic.

“There was orange everywhere in the room, they called 911 while waking up all of us kids and they said lets get out and we literally got out with our shorts and tee-shirts on,” said Ben Fowler Wednesday after his home was damaged by the fire.

But by Sunday their neighbourhood had rallied together, filling tables full of clothing for the two families left with nothing.

“We dropped off boots, jackets, scarves, mitts, dishes, money,” said Colleen Ottertail, who dropped off items Sunday.

The donations will especially help the parents and two young children who lived in the home that was leveled by the flames.

“I was really sad and I was hoping for the best for them. I haven’t seen her at all, but I hope she’s going to be at school on Monday,” said Nathan Solomon, a classmate of one of the victims.

The family of four has been staying with a neighbour who says the family isn’t ready to speak about the devastating fire. Instead they are spending their time looking for a temporary home.

“They’re very lovely people, they’re quiet, they feel humbled and they have a hard time receiving. They’re givers so it’s difficult for them to receive this kind of generosity,” said Greta Lockyer, who took in one of the families.

A website has also been created to raise money for the two families. The website has collected thousands of dollars so far and will continue accepting money until Wednesday.