One of the many families displaced by last week's fire at Applewood Court at 45744 Spadina Avenue in Chilliwack. (Image Credit: GoFundMe.)
Apartment fire

Single mom of 2, family of 7 among those displaced by Chilliwack apartment fire

Aug 12, 2026 | 8:24 AM

CHILLIWACK – The fire that severely damaged a 36-unit apartment complex in downtown Chilliwack might be out, but the battle to start over and find suitable housing is just beginning for two families among many who were displaced by the blaze.

According to a pair of GoFundMe appeals that were launched in the aftermath of the devastating fire, two Chilliwack families are among many who are starting from scratch following the blaze that ravaged the Applewood Court housing complex at 45744 Spadina Avenue in Chilliwack.

Apartment fire at 45744 Spadina Avenue in Chilliwack.
Apartment fire at 45744 Spadina Avenue in Chilliwack. (Image Credit: William Snow.)

One of those families is Misty Hamelin and her two daughters, Rhyan and Lennon, who lost everything. Their unit was completely obliterated, leaving them with basically nothing but the clothing on their backs.

The GoFundMe states that Hamelin had finally found stable housing in February at Applewood Court after leaving a transition house for women fleeing domestic violence.

“They had worked so hard to create a safe home, and in a matter of minutes, everything they owned was gone,” the GoFundMe from Destiny Gettings stated. “They are now faced with the overwhelming task of finding a new home while replacing everything from clothing and furniture to school supplies and basic everyday necessities.”

Gettings says she initiated her fundraiser to help alleviate some of the immense financial burdens Hamelin is now facing.

“Every act of kindness will help Misty, Rhyan, and Lennon begin rebuilding their lives once again,” Gettings said. “Thank you so much for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. Let’s be the village this family needs.”

Lorna Andrews started a separate GoFundMe for her brother Donny, his partner and their five kids who lost everything in the fire. The building has suffered extensive fire, smoke, and water damage and is no longer safe to live in. Along with their home, they lost their clothing, furniture, treasured keepsakes, school supplies and the everyday essentials people often take for granted, Andrews said.

“Today, this loving family of seven (7), including four (4) teenagers and a six-year-old child, faces the overwhelming challenge of starting over from nothing,” Andrews wrote in her GoFundMe. “No one should have to rebuild alone. Throughout difficult times, Community has always been a source of strength. When one family falls, others step forward to help lift them up. This is an opportunity to show Donny and his family that they are not alone, and that the support of caring people can help turn tragedy into hope.”

Donny and his family were one of many people displaced by the fire last week in Chilliwack.
Donny and his family were one of many people displaced by the fire last week in Chilliwack.

Andrews’ goal of $10,000 will help the family of seven with emergency housing and moving expenses, assistance in securing a new home, clothing and footwear for the parents and children, food and household necessities, bedding and basic home furnishings, and school supplies like backpacks and children’s essentials.

“While no amount of money can replace the memories and possessions lost in the fire, every donation will help this family take the next step forward and begin rebuilding a sense of stability, comfort and security,” Andrews said. “In their darkest moment, let us remind them of the kindness, compassion, and strength that exists within community.”