Tribal leaders seek support to rebuild economic hub of Bella Bella

Tribal leaders are asking for support to rebuild the economic hub of the community at Bella Bella, devastated by fire July 12. The building housed the only grocery store, liquor store, post office, community library and café, and suffered extensive damage from smoke, fire and water, including the collapse of parts of the main floor into the offices and services located below. Heiltsuk Chief Tribal Councillor Marilyn Slett said “We are so grateful that no one was hurt in the fire, but the loss of these services will be felt by our community for a very long time. Interim emergency services are already being organized to ensure our people have access to food and everything else they might need. We appreciate any support or help people are able to give as we try to salvage what we can and start to rebuild.” The Heiltsuk Tribal Council is accepting monetary donations on behalf of the Bella Bella community via the Web site rebuildbellabella.tumblr.com. Funds raised will support immediate assistance for families in need and will help initiate the process of rebuilding. Any assistance is welcome.