Lloydminster is once again doing what it does best, helping a member of the community rebuild after a devastating house fire.
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On Nov. 13, Lloydminster resident and cherished grandmother Val Green lost her home in a duplex fire. Newly retired, Green spent decades working in housekeeping at the Lloydminster Hospital, quietly caring for others long before herself.
The fire consumed all of her belongings, including her Christmas decorations and gifts, turning what was meant to be her first peaceful holiday in retirement into an unimaginable loss.
Green’s granddaughter, Victoria Gutierrez, created a GoFundMe initiative on Nov. 18. Since its launch, the community has raised $2,225 to help Green start over.
“Christmas is Val’s favourite time of year,” said Gutierrez on the GoFundMe page. “She decorates every corner of her home and creates a magical space for her family. She had just finished preparing for the season. Hours later, everything was gone.”
The duplex remains an active crime scene, preventing Green from entering and retrieving any belongings, including clothes, personal items, medications, gifts, keepsakes and even pet supplies.
She is currently staying in a motel, but the Red Cross support period has ended, leaving her responsible for nightly expenses she cannot sustain on a fixed retirement income.
Even amid the tragedy, Green’s first concern was her pets.
“Her priority was, ‘Are they safe? Where are they?’” said Gutierrez. “Even in total loss, her instinct is to care for the most vulnerable.”
The fundraising campaign will help cover essential items, motel costs, pet care and the beginnings of rebuilding a home.
“Val would never ask for help herself, but she truly needs her community now,” organizers said. “Every dollar helps her rebuild. Every share brings her closer to being home again.”
Those wishing to support Green can donate to the ongoing community fund and help restore comfort, stability, and hope during this difficult time.
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