On Nov. 23, 2015, a major fire claimed all units of a four-plex just off Canim-Hendrix Lake Road in Gateway, including the longtime home of Cathy and Edgar White.
They were not only left homeless, but were unable to save any of their belongings. Even their car was scorched, at least on the outside, and required repairs.
They were, essentially, left destitute.
A concerned friend of the couple brought their dire situation to the attention of the members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #261-Forest Grove during the general meeting on Dec. 15, 2015.
In order to buy necessary winter coats, the Legion members agreed to make a donation of $100, with Wendy and Robin Clarke, Jerry Billups, Rita and Tom Timleck, as well as the Forest Grove ’94 Lions, all pitching in for a total contribution of $408.
The deductible of $300 for the necessary repairs to their car by ICBC was covered by Legion member Norm Bennet, while the Cariboo Calico Quilters Guild donated one of its quilts, which they provide to victims of fire.
Just in time for the festive season on Christmas Eve, Cathy and Edgar White were able to pick up their car at the Transformers Collision Centre in 100 Mile House, where Forest Grove Legion president elect Jerry Billups handed over the keys to their fully repaired vehicle, together with an envelope containing the funds raised at the Legion meeting earlier in the month.