The smoke, thick. The fires, raging. The devastation, unimaginable.
Sandy Bay First Nation endured a harrowing reality on April 26, 2025, as wildfires tore through the community, destroying homes, displacing families, and igniting an urgent wave of solidarity.
Homes, pets, and hearts lost to flames
Two families were left homeless after wildfires consumed their homes, with Chief Trevor Prince confirming his brother was among those who fled with “basically the clothes on their backs.”
The disaster also displaced pets and scorched livelihoods, compounding the emotional toll. “My heart is so broken from all the devastation,” writes one resident in a heartfelt Facebook post. “So many people are without their homes & pets!!”
Firefighters, including Sandy Bay Fire Chief Joshua Roulette and mutual aid crews from Amaranth, Lakeview, and Glenella, battled relentless winds to prevent further losses.
“We definitely saved more homes than we lost that day,” Roulette says.
Amaranth Fire Chief Matthew Whitford echoes the challenge: “The wind conditions weren’t acceptable—it was hard to contain.”
“Tremendous strength & courage” in crisis
The community’s response has been a beacon of hope. Volunteers, RCMP officers, safety personnel, and residents worked tirelessly to support firefighting efforts and displaced families.
“My heart is full of love for the community who came together to help save MANY homes,” the Facebook post reads, praising responders for their “tremendous strength & courage.”
A donation drive is now underway to provide urgent supplies:
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Clothing (all sizes, infants to adults)
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Shoes, blankets, towels, and pillows
“I can pick up any clothing donations,” the resident adds, urging friends and family to contribute.
Rebuilding under a fire ban
Chief Prince has enforced a fire ban until safer conditions return, reiterating calls for public caution. Meanwhile, Sandy Bay’s resilience shines as donations pour in. “We’re going to replace at least some of what they lost,” Prince says.
For a community still reeling, the path forward is steep—but not walked alone.
