Fire displaces tenants from Gore Bay social housing apartment

Up to a dozen people have been displaced after a fire broke out at a geared-to-income apartment building in Gore Bay on Manitoulin Island Tuesday evening.

Gore Bay Mayor Ron Lane, who arrived on the scene shortly after the fire began, said firefighters from Gore Bay and two neighbouring municipalities were able to contain the blaze before it spread to nearby buildings.

According to Lane, the fire caused significant damage to the 10-unit complex, though no injuries were reported. 

"One apartment was completely engulfed in fire and the roof was starting to burn," Lane said. "It looks like about two-thirds of the building is damaged, so I doubt any of the units could be used right now."

Morning North6:20Tenants affected by an apartment building fire in Gore Bay have few options for alternate housing

We hear from the Mayor of Gore Bay about an apartment fire in his community. Tenants affected by the fire don't have a lot of options when it comes to finding a new place to live.

Lane said the municipal office was conveniently located just across the parking lot from the building, which allowed staff to respond quickly to the emergency.

Following the fire, the town opened its community hall as a warming centre. The local community also rallied, with residents offering lodging in private residences, vacant apartments and with friends.

"I know the local restaurants provided food and coffee and were very supportive. The local doctor helped with some medications that people had lost, and the local pharmacy opened up and filled the medication," Lane said. 

"It was really a community effort to support the situation," he added.

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS), which owns the building, is working to find temporary accommodations for displaced tenants. 

The Red Cross has been notified to assist with temporary housing, and Lane said the town is working closely with OAHS to support the displaced tenants. 

Ontario Provincial Police say they are working with the Office of the Fire Marshal to investigate the fire.

Police are offering up to a $2,000 reward for anyone who can provide information about the fire through Crime Stoppers.