Financial contributions towards support for victims of the tragic March 6 fire in Bowmanville, Clarington, have totalled more than $155,000.
Durham Region provided housing for the displaced victims, while the Clarington Board of Trade raised more than $85,000 from over 60 contributors to help affected businesses recover. The Salvation Army raised over $70,000 in gift cards and essential goods, and provided personalized assistance to help evacuees begin rebuilding their lives.
The Municipality of Clarington did not provide details of its contributions.
The results were released on July 3rd in Clarington during a municipal event to honour the kindness that carried the community through downtown Bowmanville’s tragic fire of March 6, which claimed one life, displaced more than 30 residents, and forced 10 businesses to close.
Set on the backdrop of historic Waverley Place, archival photographs offered glimpses into the people and places that shaped these streets over the past century. Message boards were filled with stories of memory and hope. Among the most tender moments was the memorial tribute to Kelli Jean Faris, whose life was lost in the fire. Residents shared heartfelt notes of love and support for her family, honouring a life remembered and held close by many, said a municipal statement.
It said as the Bowmanville Strong flag rose and commemorative pins were shared, neighbours stood side by side—symbols in hand and overhead—with hearts connected by the support shown during and after the fire.
“The resilience of our community is inspiring, and I’m genuinely in awe of how Clarington united in this moment of crisis. The outpouring of compassion and selfless support was truly remarkable. We are deeply grateful to every person who stepped forward to share in the grief, offer comfort and lend a helping hand,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.
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