CALGARY – Support for the victims of Wednesday’s wildfire near Nanton, Alberta have been pouring in from across Southern Alberta.
Good Samaritans have offered everything from food to clothing, lodging and cash.
One now homeless family who did not have insurance says they are eternally grateful.
Heather Hazen lost her mobile home in the blaze that was sparked by a downed power line.
“It sounded like somebody was shooting at the house – Pow! Pow! Pow! – It was all the electrical plugs popping out of the wall shooting out electrical voltage.”
Even more upsetting for Heather is the loss of more than five dozen cats she was housing as part of her animal rescue organization.
“They didn’t deserve to die like that, that’s for sure.”
Nearby residents are now rallying to help Heather and the other victims. The local thrift store is donating clothing.
“They don’t have anywhere to put anything, however, they still need clothes,” says Diane Wilson, with the Dressing Up Thrift Store. “Our mandate is that we invite them in for a shopping spree and this is not a once only, it’s for however long it takes them to set up house again.”
More support is being offered from the Town of Nanton.
“All communities rally very quickly, it’s an awesome place to live,” says Brad Mason. “When something bad happens there’s lots of people who care and show it right away.”
A benefit dinner and charity auction at the town’s community centre is also being organized.
“It’s humbling, it’s very kind,” says Heather.
Cash for the victims will be made available through the Nanton Emergency Fund and Fortis Alberta is donating $10,000 to the relief effort.
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