People and businesses from all corners of the community have pulled together to help the victims of a fire that tore through a couple of Pitt Meadows apartment units on April 6.
The blaze, which originated at 19041 Ford Rd. at approximately 3:30 a.m., required the efforts of both Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge firefighters – 25 in total.
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After the early-morning fire forced many of the residents out of their homes, they were directed to the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre, where the city’s Emergency Support Services (ESS) team had set up a reception centre to help the displaced individuals.
According to the City of Pitt Meadows, residents from 36 of the apartment units checked into the ESS reception centre, where they received a multitude of help.
Temporary housing was provided through Best Western Hotel for 16 of the individuals, with billeting provided to two additional people.
Those with animals were also accommodated thanks to the efforts of the Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team, which cared for 10 dogs, four cats, and one bird.
Other services were provided to the victims as well, including province-supplied vouchers to Superstore for clothing and groceries, and transportation services through local taxis.
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Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald said she was incredibly grateful for the efforts of everyone who stepped up to help those impacted by the apartment fire.
“Thanks to quick action and city resources, the fire was contained and people were safe and supported,” said MacDonald.
She credited the collaboration between the Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge firefighters, ESS team, and city staff for preventing the situation from becoming much worse.
“We would also like to acknowledge and thank the local external parties who assisted, including the Ridge Meadows RCMP, BC Ambulance, Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team, Best Western Plus Inn and Suites, and Pitt Meadows Superstore,” said Mayor MacDonald.
“We saw our community work together to resolve this incident and support those impacted by the fire. This was truly a Pitt Meadows proud moment for our city.”
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.