Community rallies behind local family after house fire

GOODLOW, B.C. — An auction has been organized to help a Peace region family rebuild after losing their home to a fire on April 6th.

According to a Facebook page started by the family, Coltin and Denise Gilpin, along with their daughter, got out of the home safely, but they lost everything, including their two dogs, Abby and Sasha.

Denise’s mother, Carla Fuks, quickly created a Facebook page and began organizing a fundraising event shortly after the incident. Fuks created the Facebook page to provide information on the family’s situation to the public while asking for donations to help them while they get back on their feet.

The community has already donated the following items to the family: girls’ clothing, a bed and blankets, small kitchen appliances, dishes, pots and other kitchen items from the community.

“We thank each and every one from the bottom of our hearts in this difficult time,” said Fuks in a Facebook post.

The auction will be held at the Cecil Lake Hall at 4864 Cecil Lake Road on Saturday, April 22nd, starting at 5:30 p.m.The family-friendly event will include a potluck dinner.

Coltin’s sister, Amanda Kwasnica, also started a GoFundMe for her brother and his family, which has raised almost $3,000.

Cash donations can be sent to gilpinfamilyhousefire@gmail.com.

The family is currently looking for gift cards for groceries, as they are presently living in a small camper on their property, according to Denise’s mother.

To donate to the family or the auction, contact  Shirley Krawece at 250-262-7643, Carla Fuks at 250-794-8154, Lisa Fuks at 250-263-2966 or Ashley Pugh at 250-794-8606.

Drop-off locations include North Peace Savings & Credit Union, asking for Olivia Young and the Purolator Depot at 10421 100th Street, asking for Michelle Waite.