Tribal leaders ask for support, donations as community pledges to rebuild
Residents of the First Nations community of Bella Bella, BC are devastated today by a sudden fire that destroyed one of the most important buildings in their small coastal village. The commercial hub and community gathering place housed Bella Bella’s only grocery store, liquor store, post office, community library and cafe.
The fire broke out at approximately 3am and the building suffered extensive damage from smoke, fire and water, including the collapse of parts of the main floor into the offices and services located below.
Heiltsuk Chief Tribal Councillor Marilyn Slett released the following statement: “We are so grateful that no one was hurt in the fire, but the loss of these services will be felt by our community for a very long time. Interim emergency services are already being organized to ensure our people have access to food and everything else they might need. We appreciate any support or help people are able to give as we try to salvage what we can and start to rebuild.”
The Heiltsuk Tribal Council is accepting monetary donations on behalf of the Bella Bella community via the website rebuildbellabella.tumblr.com. Funds raised will support immediate assistance for families in need and will help initiate the process of rebuilding. Any assistance is welcome.
