Update: the fundraiser is open again. We will keep our goal here to $50,000. The organizers of this fundraiser have been in contact with city officials directly involved in supporting the residents affected by the fire. In the next few hours, we will assign Neighbourhood House as the beneficiary. They will be in charge of dispersing 100% of the funds from this fundraiser directly to the residents. While this is open, and folks are welcome to donate here, you are also welcome to directly E-TRANSFER Neighbourhood House at the email: admin [at] newwestnh [dot] ca (no spaces) , where again, 100% of the proceeds will be dispersed to residents. Thank you everyone!

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I live across the street and am friends with someone who has lived in the building for over a decade. This is a very difficult and emotional day for many families. It looks like the building is lost. Along with it, a sanctuary, a home, cherished belongings, medications and necessities, memories, and lives built for the residents in 50 units.

Currently, families have been directed to Century House, where they will be given some vouchers and emergency housing for two days. But folks need more than two days to get back on their feet, especially families with young children, residents who are elderly, families with pets looking for a new place in this rent economy, families already on welfare, those who don't have insurance... We don't know what the story of each of the residents in 50 units are, but we can only imagine how difficult things are.

For now, this is just a fundraiser - the funds will be 100% directed to residents who are impacted and have lost their homes. A beneficiary who can disperse them responsibly and efficiently to the residents asap will be assigned soon. This is a public fundraiser for transparency and accountability.

Other needs, such as clothing, pet supplies, child supplies, will probably be offered by this lovely community. This fundraiser will go towards the families directly to support them with any additional or miscellaneous costs that are urgent.

Please donate with kindness and generosity if you have capacity. I have put the goal at $50,000, which is ambitious, but it translates to $1000 for each unit in the building. $1000 is not nearly enough to cover the losses, but it's a start. Depending on the situation, we might be able to adjust the amount to $500 per unit, or residents could choose to donate a portion for additional funds to more vulnerable individuals / families as needed. I'm reaching out to folks who can better advise on this. For now, please show your support to these residents who have called New West their home. Thank you everyone.