Bayshore fire victims appeal for homes

Yesterday, a midday shower which blew rain into the partially covered stands where 28 people have been staying, saw mothers hurriedly picking up mattresses and bed sheets. They have been living there since Boxing Day when fire razed seven apartments to the ground, caused by a lit candle which dropped on a mattress from the tiny hands of an autistic six-year-old.The incident happened at about 10 am, but everythingowned by the seven families was burnt to the ground.

Yesterday, the residents complained that they have been sleeping with their children at the basketball court, but the nights are cold and yesterday, rain swept through what has become their living quarters. Despite the visit of the MP for the area Faris Al Wari and San Fernando Mayor, Junia Regrello, who provided mattresses, the residents said yesterday they felt that the powers that be should have already offered assistance to rebuild their wooden homes. One victim, Andy Williams, said, “While we are grateful for the help we are getting from the mayor and the MP, we still cannot get lodging for the kids and the women.” Williams said the corporation informed them that they have already sourced materials to start construction of their respective apartments. “But days and nights are passing and not a nail on a piece of wood yet,” Williams said.

Other mothers, who also complained about their exposure to the elements at night as they try to comfort each other in the basketball court, made an appeal for Housing Minister Randell Mitchell and Community Development Minister Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, to visit them at Bayshore. “Let’s face it, these homes will takes months to complete and to be furnished before people can begin to live here,” Williams said, adding that while he is grateful that the mayor visited and brought foodstuff, finding a decent place to rest their heads at nights is of paramount importance. Sasha Romano said people have been visiting and providing groceries, but they do not have stoves or refrigerators to store anything.

As the mothers spoke with Newsday, young children ran about barefooted while some helped adults in packing the burnt debris into wheelbarrows to take to the dump.