Staff
A Mitaanjigamiing First Nation family is in need of support after losing the contents of their home in a fire earlier this month.
The fire occurred Feb. 6 around 4:30 p.m. at the home belonging to James Henderson, who lived there along with his nephew, Micah Henderson, said Chief Janice Henderson (who also is James’ sister).
“We’re just thankful that there’s no fatalities,” she said, though adding that unfortunately Micah’s cat died in the fire.
“Our First Nation’s staff were able to respond,” Chief Henderson noted. “We don’t have a fire truck at this point, but we’re going to seriously look at purchasing maybe even a used one really.”
While deemed accidental, the cause of the fire was unable to be determined.
“[James] was able to salvage a couple of personal items, but the majority of the clothes, the appliances, everything [is gone]. It was quick,” said Chief Henderson, noting the inside of the home suffered extensive smoke damage.
With the loss of the home’s contents, family and friends are seeking support from the public.
“My brother is the kind of person who wouldn’t ask for any help, but you know he helps a lot of people,” said Chief Henderson, adding her brother also is the community’s addictions counsellor.
The band is in the process of setting up a temporary account through the RBC for anyone who wants to assist the family, Chief Henderson noted, with further information available by contacting her at the band office (274-2188 ext. 222).
“We do have some items that are being donated that are going to be raffled off, [including] regalia,” said Chief Henderson.
“We’re going to have the draw during our sobriety pow-wow, which is going to be Saturday, Feb. 27 in our community,” she added.
As well, plans are in the works for a benefit dance on Feb. 26, with more details to follow.
Chief Henderson also wanted to acknowledge all of the people who came out to support and help the family this past Saturday at a breakfast fundraiser at the Couchiching multi-use facility.
