'I don't want to use the phrase we are overwhelmed because we also expect it, because that is what North Bay is like'
John Lechlitner is impressed but not surprised with the outpouring of support for recent fire victims whose apartments were destroyed during the March 26 Main Street blaze which also demolished a local tattoo shop and a restaurant.
"I don't want to use the phrase we are overwhelmed because we also expect it, because that is what North Bay is like," said Lechlitner.
The Cedar Tree Restaurant and Deluxe Custom Tattoos businesses were destroyed, and six second-floor apartments were also lost.
Lechlitner, who owns a business across the street from the fire, Cecil's Brewhouse and Kitchen, wanted to do something to support the victims.
Last Thursday Lechlitner, with support from downtown businesses and the Chamber of Commerce, held a spaghetti dinner to raise money for the families.
He says the sold-out event brought in just over $5,300.
"We were just the facilitators, it was the hundreds of people who donated through dinner or cash donations," said Lechlitner.
Lechlitner says the money came from the meals and those who dropped off donations.
"It was great to see that people really got behind to help these victims of a fire," he said.
"I am looking out my office window at the rubble. That is all that is left. They lost everything so we are just glad that everybody was able to help raise some money and help these people, in a small way, get things back on track."
See related: Cecil's supporting displaced tenant victims of downtown fire
Lechlitner says the Chamber of Commerce has agreed to help get the money to the fire victims.
Lechlitner admits he knows a couple of the tenants of those apartments personally, so he felt compelled to try and do something to help.
The North Bay Fire Department confirmed eight adults and three children lived in the six apartments that are now in a burnt pile of ruin. Greg Saunders, deputy fire chief, added that four adults and three children had secured accommodations.
Anyone interested in making a donation can email transfer to help. For email transfers please use this email info@portnorthbay.ca