One year after fire, Lower Bonasika family rebuilds house but seeks help to furnish

A Lower Bonasika, Essequibo River family took one year to rebuild their house after a devastating fire in December 2021.

Now, the family of eight is appealing for help to furnish the home.

Joshua Gill, his wife, and their six children lost their belongings, household items and important documents in the December fire.

The family was living in a rented house to facilitate the construction of their new house.

Gill, who works as a farmer, had told the News Room that on the day of the fire, he was at the farmlands with four of his children; his wife and other children later joined them.

While chopping some wood, Gill recalled that he saw thick black smoke and thought one of his children had ventured off and lit a fire. When he realised it was his house on fire, it was too late.

A few weeks after the fire, Gill was given over $2 million in cash and building materials from the Ministry of Housing and Water.

Over the past year, the man managed to build a three-bedroom house for his family.

“I really want to move in with my family but we need several items including bed, mattresses, a kitchen cupboard, a dining set, kitchen utensils to restart,” Gill said.

He added: “I am very thankful for those who helped me to reach this far.”

Those desirous of helping can contact 684-5248 or 664-6794.