A local family is trying to rebuild their lives after a devastating house fire left them with nothing but the clothes on their backs — and an outpouring of support from the community.
Taylor Brandon Cote, who lived in the home with his sisters, recounted the terrifying morning when he woke up to find their living room engulfed in flames.
“I was in bed at that time and I heard the fire alarm go off,” he said. “I opened up my bedroom door and there was smoke up to my chest. I looked to my left and my whole entire living room was engulfed in flames.”
Cote immediately got his sister out of the house through a window, then tried to go back inside to rescue their pets. Ultimately, he was forced to jump out the window himself.
Tragically, the family’s two cats and pet lizard did not survive.
The fire, which occurred just a couple of days ago, destroyed everything the family owned, including clothing, kitchen items and basic necessities.
“We’re just kind of taking it day by day,” said Cote. “We’re still trying to piece everything together and figure out what the next step is.”
A GoFundMe page was quickly set up to support the family. Within just a day and a half, more than $2,500 had already been raised.
“It’s been an eye-opener to me on how generous people are in this community and how family-oriented they are,” said Cote. “It’s been really overwhelming. We don’t even know how to accept all the help we’ve been given.”
The family is currently in the process of finding new accommodations and needs household essentials, clothing and other donations.
Those who would like to help can contact Cote directly at 306-461-3956. His sister Savannah Crouse can be reached at 306-471-8222. Cote said any donations, whether monetary or physical, are deeply appreciated.
When asked what message he’d like to share with the community, Cote was at a loss for words, not out of ungratefulness but from the emotional weight of the last few days.
Looking back on the place he had called home for more than two years, Cote said it was a sanctuary, a place where he and his family could be together.
Now, thanks to the kindness of the community, they are beginning the slow process of rebuilding their lives.