Residents displaced by an early morning fire last Friday have recieved an outpouring of support from the community as officials continue to probe the cause of the blaze.
At around 3 a.m. last Friday, 16 firefighters responded to the blaze at Evergreen Terrace Townhouses, located at 829 Hillside Ave., and arrived to find residents had already fled from the flames.
Crews attacked the blaze from both the front and back of the building, but the fire grew in intensity, spreading to the uppermost floor, then across the attic space to the adjoining units. Four off-duty firefighters were called to the scene to provide additional assistance.
Social services were also called upon to care for the 35 displaced residents, who were given food vouchers and temporary housing at the Sandman Hotel on Douglas Street.
A number of organizations such as community churches, Value Village, the Mustard Seed, the Salvation Army, Knights of Columbus, the Victoria Firefighter’s Charitable Society and CFAX Santa’s Anonymous, continue to provide support.
B.C. Housing, which owns and operates the building, has arranged for new, permanent accommodation for all displaced residents and expects to have them available within the week.
The fire caused an estimated $1 million in damage to the 10-unit complex that houses families and seniors. Fire officials say three suites were heavily damaged by the fire and four will require extensive repairs. The cause is still being investigated.
To donate and help those affected by the fire visit quadravillagecc.com.
