Has the Reception Centre closed?
The Reception Centre closed as of Monday, March 11 as all displaced residents have been provided with temporary accommodation.
For any immediate questions or concerns not addressed in this document, contact the Emergency Support Services via email at ESS@coquitlam.ca.
How long can I expect to receive temporary hotel accommodation through the Emergency Support Services?
We understand this is a difficult time for all residents affected by the Gatensbury fire. Most of the residents may now safely return home, and will no longer be provided temporary accommodation as of check out time on Sunday, March 17.
Residents who cannot reoccupy their units (see list above), will continue to receive temporary hotel accommodation, along with meal and incidental vouchers, until Wednesday, March 27, 2024 through the Emergency Support Service program. These residents will be provided an information update on Wednesday, March 20 at 2 p.m. in the Birch Room at the Executive Plaza Hotel, which will include more information on resources and supports available to assist you. Details on this information update will be shared by email and through notices at the hotels.
Where can I find ongoing information and updates?
We are committed to keeping you informed and will share updates on timelines and access as soon as information is available. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to work to get accurate and updated information to you.
Who do I contact if I have further questions or require additional assistance?
See the Community Resources section of this FAQ for more information.
For specific requests or other inquiries related to the supports available to you, please reach out to Emergency Support Services by emailing ESS@coquitlam.ca.
I did not have insurance, what resources are available to assist me in replacing personal items lost or damaged in the fire?
We understand that losses due to a fire can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're without insurance to cover the replacement of personal items. See the Community Resources section of this FAQ for more information on local organizations, emergency assistance programs and charitable groups that may offer aid, such as clothing, household items and financial support.
Additionally, the Coquitlam Foundation is actively coordinating fundraising efforts to support residents displaced by the Gatensbury Fire. The Emergency Social Services (ESS) team is currently working closely with the Foundation to finalize the details on how affected residents can access this assistance. We expect to share more detailed information shortly.
How do I check the balance on the gift cards I was issued?
Through the Emergency Support Services program, affected residents were provided gift cards to cover meals and incidentals. It is the responsibility of residents to keep that card safe and to keep track of balances. Stores will not be able to tell you the balance on your card.
If there are not enough funds on the card, it may be declined at the point of purchase (e.g. if you are spending $15 but only have $14.50 on the card, it may be declined). You can also make partial payments (e.g. if you are spending $20 but the card only has $15, tell the vendor to take $15 from the card and you will have to pay the remaining $5 separately).
To check the balance on your gift card, visit jokercard.ca or call 1-855-288-0926.
I understand funds have been donated to the Coquitlam Foundation for residents of 523 Gatensbury Street. How can I access that funding for me and my family?
We are grateful to the Coquitlam Foundation for stepping up to collect funds from community members looking to support affected residents. While we understand residents may be looking for longer-term solutions, at this time, our immediate focus is on temporary support and working to get as many residents back in the building as quickly as possible.
Once we have a clearer picture of the long-term impacts, the City will work with the Coquitlam Foundation to disburse funds based on needs and requests.