An online fundraiser has been launched through GoFundMe following the devastating fire that injured several people and caused significant damage to a local motel.
However, the Value Lodge Motel was not just a motel, it offered housing options for many underprivileged Nanaimo community members.
At around 3 a.m. on December 26th the blaze tore through the Value Lodge, and left 36 long-term tenants suddenly homeless.
All these individuals lost their personal belongings during the fire.
“These were not short-term guests. This was home,” said Amanda Gangoso, a Nanaimo local impacted by the fire.
“The residents include seniors, individuals with medical and mobility challenges, and people living on low incomes—many of whom already faced limited housing options.”
Gangoso launched the fundraiser on behalf of the Value Lodge Motel in the hopes it can help others who were impacted by the destructive fire.
The Value Lodge has been one of the few affordable housing options available to those in Nanaimo for over 15 years.
Since the residents of the building have been displaced, Nanaimo Emergency Support Services have stepped in and provided temporary housing.
Furthermore, the Nanaimo community has come together to donate food and immediate support items to those impacted.
Despite the immediate support, Gangoso says the support will soon 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,” she explained.
According to Gangoso, the funds raised by the GoFundMe will go towards emergency and short-term accommodation, moving costs, medications and medical necessities, food, clothing, essential daily items and support to help residents begin rebuilding their lives.
As the cold of winter sets in, she says that housing is the top priority.
“This fundraiser exists for one purpose: to get people safely housed as soon as possible,” said Gangoso.
“Every donation—no matter the amount—will directly support those impacted by this tragedy during this critical transition period.”
She added that those who cannot donate can support the displaced residents by sharing the fundraiser on social media, sending the link via text or email or talking about it.
As of this publication, the GoFundMe is at just over $10,500 of its $55,000 goal.
