A Grassy Narrows First Nation family is grieving the loss of their home after a devastating fire left the family stranded.
Clara and JJ Kokokopenace lost everything except for the clothes on their backs after they watched their home engulf in flames on December 29, 2021.
Carla Kokokopenace the daughter of Clara and sister to JJ spoke on the emotion the family is feeling after the tragedy.
“We were in disbelief the first couple of days. There were other things that were happening in the community that had a big impact on us,” said Kokokopenace.
Carla was at her house on the day of the fire and said it all happened so fast.
“It went up really quickly. We barely had any time to do anything about it. By the time we got there was nothing, we could do about it. My brother had to be stopped from running back in because it was just in flames.”
She noted the root of the fire hasn’t been determined, but from her understanding, it's possible the fire started from either an Xbox or an overloaded power bar.
The original fire didn’t completely destroy the house, but days later reignited and completely burned the house to the ground.
Surrounding communities have stepped up to help the family with donations.
“In Dalles First Nation we have a friend that started a dimes and nickels drive. I had another friend do a 50/50 event, which we were able to pick up clothing, and a few toiletries for him [JJ], and replaced a tablet so he had some sort of communication.”
Carla has taken it upon herself to start a gofundme page to assist her mom and brother in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of the home, with a goal of $2,500.
The family is accepting towels, blankets, bedsheets, and big and tall clothing as donations.
Due to recent COVID-19 restrictions, the family hasn’t been able to get together to discuss the final cost to rebuild the home.