Two events in two communities are helping a Gingolx family get back on its feet following a house fire April 1 in which everything was lost.
A loonie auction in Gingolx at the community centre April 4 raised more than $6,000 while delegates and others attending the Haisla LNG Conference and Trade Show this week in Kitimat put aside business dealings, collecting $17,755.
The two events are in support of Melvin and Rita Barton and family members Sam and Micita and Lawrence Moore and Kolsyn. There were no injuries resulting from the fire.
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Gingolx is one of the four Nisga’a villages in the Nass Valley and is the most westerly village, located near the mouth of the Nass River.
The Haisla LNG collection was started with a $1,000 donation from the Haisla Nation and individuals, corporations and others soon followed.
Both the Kitimat and Gingolx efforts featured 50-50 draws.
In addition to cash, items were also donated to the family.
Family member Micita Barton posted a message on Facebook saying the family is “absolutely grateful for the continuous support from everyone.”
One of the Gingolx event organizers, Daisy Clayton, also posted a message on Facebook, thanking everyone who made that event possible.
Other social media postings indicate donations are coming from Haida Gwaii.
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