Just hours after a fire ravaged four homes in Crystal Lake Estates, a group of local residents are hard at work to find them clothing and shoes.
Ryan Thorlaksen, who is helping organize the efforts through a Facebook group, says at this point, he only has a list of needs for one family so far, but is still working on getting a list for the others.
“They have a 12 year old daughter who needs size 6 shoes and wears women’s small. The boy is 3, he’s wearing size 4, and size 9 or 10 shoes. The husband is looking at size 9 shoes and men’s large clothing. The woman is wearing size 8 shoes, and 28 jeans.”
He says some local businesses are helping out.
“There is a lady running around canvassing local businesses. She’s collected quite a bit, as far as toiletries and gift cards and that type of thing.”
Thorlaksen says the drop off point for donations is 8002 112 Street, after 6 pm this evening, or you can contact him to make arrangements at 780-876-2051.
Donations can also be made through a gofundme, which will be donated to all five families who lost their homes this past week in Grande Prairie.
The Canadian Red Cross is doing their part, providing 72 hour personal disaster assistance to two of the families and one individual.
Their program provides a few days worth of lodging, hygiene kits, blankets, and occasionally clothing to those who have suffered a personal disaster.
Alberta Red Cross spokesperson Russ Medvedev says it costs about $2000 to help out a family of four.
They are accepting donations to support the 72 Hour disaster assistance program through their website or Grande Prairie office.