Carpe D' Wine Okanagan tour boat destroyed by fire

We are reaching out to you today with heavy hearts, but also with a strong sense of community and hope. As many of you may have learned, our dear friend Shelley McDonald, owner of Carpe D’Wine, a houseboat wine touring business in Vernon, has recently faced a devastating setback. A fire erupted on August 1, caused by a welding incident that destroyed her boat and her entire livelihood in one devastating moment. While we're grateful that no one was harmed, the emotional and financial toll on Shelley has been profound.

Shelley has been a pillar of our community for years and recently retired from Telus to pursue her dream of Carpe D’Wine and her love of sharing her sommelier knowledge with her guests aboard her boat. Her houseboat business has been a source of happiness for locals and visitors alike, and now she needs our support more than ever.

Today, we're launching this GoFundMe campaign to lend our support to Shelley's journey of rebuilding. Unfortunately, Shelley's boat, all her supplies, her business, and her income have all been destroyed by the fire, yet the bills for this tragedy are flowing in. Unfortunately Shelley was not insured for this disaster during the repairs while out of the water, and additionally Shelley has incurred substantial bills associated to the fire itself. The funds raised from this Go Fund Me will go directly towards the fire related bills which are an immediate financial burden, such as clearing and cleaning up the fire sight, salvage of the remaining hulk of the boat, and storage.

Every Contribution Counts: We understand that times are tough for many, and any contribution you can make will make a significant impact. Whether it's a small donation or a larger one, your generosity will play a crucial role in helping Shelley rebuild her dream. If you're unable to contribute financially, sharing this campaign and sending words of encouragement are equally valuable ways to show your support.

Let's rally together as a community to support Shelley McDonald in her quest to rise from the ashes and rebuild her cherished wine touring houseboat business.

Thank you from the depths of our hearts for your kindness, compassion, and for being a part of Shelley's extended family.

View the news of the fire at:

https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/439622/Houseboat-goes-up-in-flames-at-Paddlewheel-Park-in-Vernon