Habitat for Humanity continues to assist Welland family after fire
The Vicentes family has felt the community’s support after they lost everything due to a neighbouring garage fire in Welland on Sept. 2.
In July, Juan Vicentes and his wife Luz, along with their three children, moved into the Habitat for Humanity house at 47 Sauer Ave. Only a few months later their dreams came crashing down when a fire on Bradley Avenue spread to their home, destroying everything.
Since the fire a Go Fund Me webpage was created to support the family, who are originally from Colombia and have no relatives in Niagara. To date, $4,230 has been raised toward a $5,000 goal.
The money is assisting with housing, clothing and other supplies.
Habitat for Humanity is assisting with housing the family now staying temporarily in Niagara Falls, and with the insurance process.
In an email Wednesday afternoon, Karen Dolyniuk, chief development officer for the organization, said the family wasn’t comfortable with speaking to the media. She said they did want to express their gratitude, however.
“When life gives you a thousand reasons to cry, show it that you have a thousand reasons to laugh, and one of those reasons is to know that we are surrounded by people as special as each of you. We are eternally grateful,” Dolyniuk said in the email on behalf of the family.
The Vicentes family will move back to Welland in October. They will live in a temporary rental home until their house on Sauer Avenue can be restored. Dolyniuk said the insurance company is managing the rebuild and are trying to get it completed as soon as possible.
To make a donation visit www.gofundme. com/2fbpe-family-of-5-lost-all-in-fire.