Image: Desiree Skerratt / A family is now appealing for help after a devastating fire on Wellington Ave Wednesday, July 9.

By Alyssa Conti

FUNDRAISING HELP

Chilliwack family appeals for help after devastating overnight fire Wednesday

Jul 12, 2025 | 2:15 PM

CHILLIWACK — A local family is now asking for community support after their home and belongings burst into flames overnight earlier this week.

At around 2:45 a.m. on Wednesday (July 9), firefighters were dispatched to the scene in the 45000 block of Wellington Avenue, where Desiree Skerratt lived with her two children and two small dogs.

“[I] woke up in the middle of the night to the house on fire,” wrote Skerratt in a GoFundMe. “We are starting from scratch. Thankfully, everyone survived but now we are homeless.”

Aftermath of the fire. Source: Desiree Skerratt / GoFundMe

Aftermath of the fire. Source: Desiree Skerratt / GoFundMe

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The house was attached to another living unit and located on top of a used bookstore, which all suffered water and smoke damage.

“We’re devastated and in shock– anything helps.”

Skerratt and her family are looking to rent a three-bedroom home in the meantime.

The online fundraiser is at $375 out of its $4,500 goal at the time of writing. You can also donate directly through Skerratt’s email at lolita_mamacita@hotmail.com.