Fire forces 46 people from their homes
Donations sought for those displaced
The biggest part we want to focus on is just making sure all the evacuees get what they need.
Dozens of people are still out of their homes after fire ripped through a west-side apartment building on Thursday morning.
The Red Cross is currently offering food, shelter and clothing to 46 residents who are not able to return to their homes in the Westridge Estates B apartment building after a fire broke out on the third floor, spreading upwards and igniting the roof. Nearly 100 suites were affected. “It looks like the damage is for sure very extensive, the entire fourth floor will be lost,” said David McIlveen, director of community development for Boardwalk Rental Communities.
He added that the company doesn’t know the full extent of the damage but expects to regain access to the building on Tuesday.
“We don’t know what the plan will be until we get into it,” he said.
With no date set for residents to return, the Edmonton Emergency Relief Services Society (EERS) is appealing to the public for donations as they continue to offer support for those displaced.
“Right now we are asking for new toiletries, new socks and underwear, and basic clothing such as sweats and T-shirts for all ages and sizes,” said Nicole Geoffroy, spokesperson EERS.
To accommodate the expected influx of evacuees, the EERS at 10255 104 St. will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday to accept donations and offer essentials to those forced to flee.
“The biggest part we want to focus on is just making sure all the evacuees get what they need in regards to their basic supplies to help them get through until they are able to figure out what their next steps may be,” Geoffroy said.
Boardwalk Rental Communities is offering displaced residents a February rental credit as well as gift cards to help with short-term associated costs. Residents are asked to contact Boardwalk customer service at 1-800-310-9255 to confirm their location and find out about available resources.