Hi,

My name is Amanda Gangoso, I’m a Nanaimo local, and like many in our community, I’ve been deeply affected by the devastating fire at the Value Lodge Motel.

In the early morning hours of December 26th at 3:00 a.m., a fire tore through the Value Lodge, leaving 36 long-term tenants suddenly homeless, with all of their personal belongings lost.

These were not short-term guests. This was home.

The residents include seniors, individuals with medical and mobility challenges, and people living on low incomes—many of whom already faced limited housing options.

For over 15 years, the Value Lodge has provided one of the few affordable housing options available when there were no other choices. Now, these residents have nowhere to return to.

Nanaimo Emergency Support Services has stepped in and provided temporary housing, and the incredible Nanaimo community has come together to donate food and immediate support.

However, this emergency assistance is set to run out.

What’s urgently needed now are funds to secure safe housing and basic necessities so these individuals can begin to stabilize after an unimaginable loss.

How these funds will be used:

Our top and most urgent priority is housing.

This fundraiser exists for one purpose: to get people safely housed as soon as possible.

Every donation—no matter the amount—will directly support those impacted by this tragedy during this critical transition period. Do not feel obligated to donate a large amount. Anything helps.

If you’re unable to donate financially, you can still help in powerful ways:

Thank you, truly, for showing up for our neighbours during one of the hardest moments of their lives. Your generosity, compassion, and willingness to help will have a real and immediate impact.

With so much gratitude,

Amanda Gangoso + the community

Global News Clip