Eliot and Teresa's Fire Recovery Fund

https://www.bclocalnews.com/news/fire-guts-abbotsford-apartment-building-overnight/ 
https://www.abbynews.com/news/fire-guts-abbotsford-apartment-building-overnight/

                In the early morning of February 14th, my parent’s apartment building caught fire and within a matter of hours they lost all of their possessions except for the clothes they wore and my mother’s purse. Thankfully, they are physically well and no one in the building has reported any serious injuries.

                That said, my parents are both retirees and have lost nearly 70 years worth of belongings; some of it was valuable, a lot of it was sentimental. Adding to the blow, they had just finished emptying their storage unit of its contents into their apartment with the intention of sorting through items to keep, donate, or give to family members. Everything from my mom’s wedding ring, boxes of family photographs, to heirlooms and antiques, vinyl collections, books, and various items of personal value. Quite literally, everything they owned was in that apartment, and due to how extensive the fire was, we don’t think any of it will be salvageable.

                I (their daughter) am setting up this fund where the money that is donated will be used for a few different things. First, we would like to set our parents up with at least six months worth of rent + living expenses, which we estimate will be around 3k/month or 18-20k for 6 months. Being as they are older (67 and 68, respectively), there’s all the usual living expenses plus medications and medical expenses (certain treatments, such as physiotherapy etc., not covered by their insurance.)

                Any remaining money beyond that will go towards getting them back on their feet. As they were renters, we would like to find them a new place and see that they can refurbish their new home as soon as possible. This money will pay for items such as furniture, electronics, kitchen equipment, bathroom towels, sheets and blankets, etc. They also need to replace medical equipment, like my dad’s CPAP machine, hopefully right away.

                This has been an awful time for our family, especially for our parents. However, there are already a number of people to thank for helping us move forwards. Thank you to the Abbotsford Fire Department, first and foremost, for doing what they could to control the fire and getting the occupants of the building out safely. Aldergrove Alliance Church, for their immediate donation. Northview Community Church, for their offer of help to cover one months rent and provide emotional support through all this. And of course, our friends and family, for all the love and care we’ve been shown. It means more than words can say.

                If you’re unable to donate, please don’t feel obligated. Financial hardship is something my family has known all too well, and these last 12 months haven’t made life easy on anyone. If you would like to share, that would be much appreciated. Even if you’ve just taken the time to read this, thank you!

                Stay safe and be kind,

                The Johnson Family.