Community support strong as single mother rebuilds after fire

Vanlisha Warrick, the single mother whose wooden home at Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast was destroyed by fire last Thursday, says she is slowly returning to normalcy with the help of her community.

Speaking with the News Room on Wednesday, Warrick said the outpouring of support has brought comfort during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

“Since the fire, persons [have been] coming to sympathise and offer assistance. That has brought a little bit of relief knowing that I’m not alone in this fight,” she said.

Warrick, who was at her salon a few streets away when the fire started, lost all of her belongings in the blaze. She estimates it will cost millions of dollars to rebuild and refurnish the home she shared with her seven-year-old son, Hayden Sooklall.

She has received hampers, clothing and monetary donations from neighbours, friends, organisations and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

“I would’ve received some hampers from the community as well as clothing for me and my son… an organisation brought a hamper and a monetary token and the Regional Democratic Council brought a hamper and some money,” she said.

In addition, former schoolmates are organising a food sale fundraiser to help her purchase essential items.

“They are currently organising a food sale… to help me purchase some stuff such as a bed so I can sleep on to be comfortable,” Warrick said.

Her son returned to school on Monday with assistance for his uniform and supplies. While he is coping, she admitted the experience has affected him.

“He is not really taking on that much. His teachers are working with him,” she said.

According to Warrick, he still asks questions from time to time. The family is currently staying with his grandparents, which she said helps to take his mind away as well.

Warrick is also preparing to return to work at the Suddie Hospital, while continuing her salon business as she rebuilds her life. She has been granted permission to clear debris from the yard, with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) assisting in its removal.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the fire’s cause, Warrick remains optimistic, determined not to let the tragedy derail her goals.