By Kathy Gallant

M.L. family thankful for local support after house fire

Apr 20, 2018 | 5:00 PM

A family of six had a rough week after a house fire ripped through their rental home on Tuesday, April 17. However, members are beyond thankful for the support and generosity they have received from the community in the days since.

Ryan (who asked to not have his last name used) and his wife and four children moved to Meadow Lake within the last two years. One of his sons called him to alert him there was smoke billowing out of their house on Ninth Ave. W. on Tuesday afternoon.

“We drove really fast back home, and called 911 to ask for help,” he said. “[Fire Chief] Neil Marsh was quick to respond. I commend the fire department for doing their best to stop the fire.”

He said since the fire occurred, a number of organizations have reached out the family, including the Red Cross, Meadow Lake Lions Club and Salvation Army. He said it’s been an overwhelming time, but the support is helpful.

“The family is doing fine; a little disoriented still,” Ryan said. “I haven’t slept for two days. We’re shaken from what happened, and are thankful we’re still alive and no one got hurt. I think that’s the most important thing.”

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Individuals have also been helping as well. Krystina Penner was on Centre St. the day the fire broke out, and saw fire trucks go by. She discovered her husband Foryst had briefly met Ryan last year. She thought she would ask friends, family and coworkers to help collect some items the family needs to rebuild their lives.

“I just thought [we should] get some together,” Penner said. “I got a couch and a love seat and a double bed among other things.”

She also found out what sizes of clothes the family needs, as well as other furniture, kitchen supplies, blankets, curtains, and even games. She also put a call out on local social media groups and encouraged people to contact her if they’d like to donate any items. She said she’s had many responses in the last couple days.

“We got to talk with the boys and they’re very much into gaming,” Penner said. My husband also asked what type of movies they like because they don’t even have anything to do right now, so we’re going to bring them some cards, games and movies.”

Ryan said even though Meadow Lake is not his hometown, he’s thankful to live here.

“I don’t know who all has helped, but I really want to thank them all,” he said.

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @ReporterKath