ESKASONI, N.S. — Residents left homeless after a fire ripped through a 15-unit apartment building are beginning the process of putting their lives back together.
The 21 residents were forced out of their homes last Friday after a fire spread through the facility on Sanwell Paul Drive. No injuries were reported.
Chief Leroy Denny said Monday that some residents were provided with accommodations at the Hampton Inn in Membertou while others found refuge with friends and family.
“We will be meeting with them Monday to discuss what their needs are and what the next steps are,” said Denny.
As investigators continue to probe the remains of the structure, Denny said there is some speculation that the cause may have been electrical. He said the blaze began in a bottom floor apartment before spreading to the second floor.
He described the damage as extensive.
Meanwhile, the community will be hosting an online fundraiser for those left homeless as a result of the fire. Details of the event were still being worked out Monday.
Also, Pride Eskasoni will be donating a portion of its profits from its weekly fundraiser to the survivors as well.
“People are helping out,” said Denny, adding members of the band council are also expected to address the situation during a meeting later this week.
Denny recalled this being the second fire at the building in about 15 years. He said the first fire was the result of a travel trailer that caught fire and spread to the apartment building.