University News

Two Overnight Fires Leave Bishop’s Students Homeless

Sherbrooke QC - September 10, 2009

Two separate and unrelated fires overnight have left a number of Bishop’s students homeless. At the present time both fires are believed to be accidental, and all residents of both buildings are safe and accounted for.

The  first fire broke out in a main floor apartment at 3053 College Street around  9:00 pm on September 9th. Police and Fire Departments were on the  scene quickly. Residents were able to return to their apartments to collect  personal belongings. Six Bishop’s students are believed to live in the building;  two international students have been given rooms on campus, the others stayed  with friends overnight.

A  second fire broke out in an apartment complex at 1 and 3 Speid (above Korvette)  at approximately 1:40 am on September 10th. Police were first on the  scene and evacuated the 14 apartment complex. 19 students reside in the  building; all have been accounted for with six spending the remainder of the  night on campus and the balance staying with friends. One Bishop’s student was  taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation, minor burns and shock. The student  was released shortly after 6:00 am from hospital.

 

University officials as well as representatives from the Red Cross. The University will provide every service and support necessary to students, including:

• Academic support
• Emergency loans from the Business Office, vouchers for meals and textbooks/supplies at the Bookstore
• Identification (Gaiter cards, bank cards, etc.)
• Availability of counsellors and health professionals
• Assistance with housing (on campus and in Lennoxville)
• Insurance claim completion
• Red Cross vouchers for clothing and food
• Clothing (donations from students and community members)

 

Many students have lost everything, leaving their apartment with only the clothes on their back. The University will gratefully accept donations of clothing, furniture, supplies or financial contributions to assist the students affected. To make a gift to the Fire Relief Fund please contact Jill Fletcher in the University Advancement Office at 819-822-9660.

“Thankfully  everyone is safe and accounted for,” said Principal Michael Goldbloom. “The University  community has mobilized quickly to support our students. We are grateful to the  Sherbrooke Police and Fire Services for their quick response and evacuation  procedures.”

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