A Port Coquitlam family is in financial distress after a fire destroyed their home last week.
Now they’re hoping an online fundraiser can help them get back on their feet.
“We are on our last leg here trying to stay afloat. I would hate for anyone I know and care about to be going through this, but this is our reality,” notes the family’s statement on Go Fund Me.
The family’s home at 1137 Bennet Dr. was burned in a fire on Sept. 30, and the family of three, including a mother, daughter, 20, and son, 17, are struggling to find accommodation and deal with issues arising from the blaze that started in the garage.
“Everyone’s been so helpful and we are fortunate to know we have very good neighbours,” said the daughter, who is going to school at BCIT and asked her name not be published for security reasons.
Family members were shocked when fire started in the garage in the south Port Coquitlam townhouse complex.
Several neighbours came out to try to help put out the fire with a garden hose but it quickly spread.
By the time fire crews arrived, the flames were shooting out of the garage and through the roof.
It’s not known if or when the family can reclaim any belongings as the building has been deemed unsafe.
RCMP Victim Services provided support to the family, but the ongoing reality of finding a place to live and rebuilding from scratch is hitting home, said the mom, who is also paying medical expenses and tuition for her son who has special needs.
The family, which fled political turmoil in Hong Kong, has been in Canada for about a year. They purchased the townhome so the children could finish their education.
However, the home wasn’t insured as it was undergoing renovations, according to the mother.
Meanwhile, one son and the father remain in Hong Kong and are hoping for reunification.
“We are very grateful for the help so far,” the daughter said.
