Fundraiser launched for retiree who lost home in White Rock Lake wildfire

The White Rock Lake wildfire consumed the holiday trailer that was home to a 68-year-old retiree, and now a sympathetic neighbour is trying to make sure he has somewhere to land.

“One of the biggest and most aggressive fires burning is called the White Rock Lake fire,” Angela McNair said on the GoFundMe page she started. “Unfortunately, Richard’s home was burned down in the process, along with many other things such as clothes, tables, chairs, blankets, pillows, tools, generators and other necessities of daily living."

McNair said Richard Gazzara is a very kind and generous man who lives an off-grid lifestyle on a piece of land in the Okanagan, just off Westside Road, along with his dog Alfie.

Gazzara and Alfie were evacuated on the evening of July 31, and have lost everything.

“They are not sure when they can return," she said.

The goal of the fundraiser is $15,000. The money will be spent on purchasing a used holiday trailer and replace items that were lost.

“Any donation would be so greatly appreciated to help get this very kind man back on his feet," McNair said.

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