Quinte News: GoFundMe Raises Over $18,400 After Quinte West Fire

quinte news: A GoFundMe page launched for the family affected by last week’s Quinte West fire had raised over $18,400 by 4:15 p.m. on Monday, against a $26,000 goal. The fundraiser says PJ, Alicia, and their two little girls got out safely, but lost their home and everyday essentials.

17 Bayside Drive Fire

Quinte West Fire & Rescue responded to a blaze at 17 Bayside Drive just after 12 p.m. on Friday, and Fire Chief John Whelan said it quickly became a three-alarm fire. Whelan said a preliminary investigation suggests lithium batteries being charged on the deck of the house caused the blaze.

All occupants were able to get out safely. The fire still left the family without clothes, toys, food, school or camp supplies for the girls, or a place to stay while they sort out the next steps.

GoFundMe Goal For PJ

The GoFundMe page says the family now faces temporary housing costs and the other small but immediate expenses that come with rebuilding daily life. It also says the insurance process can take time and is quite complex, which puts the fundraiser’s cash total into direct use now rather than later.

By Monday afternoon, the page had climbed to more than two-thirds of its $26,000 target. For anyone trying to help, the fastest path is the fundraiser already in motion, because the family’s most urgent needs are happening before any insurance payout arrives.