McDougal Creek Fire - lost home and jobs

Hello there my name is Loriann. Sara and I are fundraising for her mom, dad and younger sister. Denica, Derek and Jennifer.

One of my dearest friends and her family have suffered a terrible tragedy, as many have during the horrific display of Mother Nature’s wrath. Denica, Derek and their daughter Jennifer Fletcher have lost their beloved home of 33 years, to the McDougal Creek fire, on Thursday Aug 17, 2023. They do have insurance, however, they have lost absolutely everything, including their income as the three of them worked at Lake Okanagan Resort which has also burned down.

Derek worked as a paid on call firefighter for 33 years at Wilson’s Landing Station 42 West Kelowna. He was Chief of the hall for 11 years, however, he stepped down as Chief his last four years, so he could work the front line with his eldest daughter Sara. It does not stop there, both Denica and Jennifer also worked as paid on call firefighters for approximately 3 years at Wilson’s Landing Station 42. Truly a family affair. This is a family that has given a lot of time and devotion caring for and helping others. Working the front line when the calls come in. Putting their safety on the line.

The loss of their jobs has made the loss of their home that much harder, as they have no income to support themselves while waiting for the insurance company to review their file. In the meantime, Derek may be able to apply for EI which will take 6-8 weeks to possibly approve depending on wait time. However, Denica and Jennifer worked part time and may not have enough hours for EI. Derek was the main income provider.

They are a very close knit family and spend much of their time together. Denica and Derek are the most caring and loving couple and have spent 34 years together. They truly are each others person.

These two are the type of people that would open their door to anyone in need and be there to support people when going through difficult times. Whether it was to hold a hand, lend a shoulder/ear or pass the Kleenex, you knew that they were there to support you if ever on need.

They have a long road of recovery ahead and appreciate all the love, texts and posts on Facebook. Please know that they love each and everyone of you, but they need time to process, grieve and plan the next steps for their future. They will reach out as they can and apologize if they are unable to respond to each message they receive. They are all safe, however, Sara is still on the front line and they are requesting prays for her safety and of those fighting this awful fire.

Please, if you can help in any way it would be greatly appreciated. Funds raised will go towards food, shelter, bills, medication (not covered by MSP), replacement CPAP machine plus accessories required, and other daily expenses that may come up while they seek other financial options; such as EI and their home insurance. We all know that this could take months and ESS is only available for the short term. Unfortunately, they do not cover all expenses. All donations will go directly to the Fletcher family.