Residents are still unable to return to the Value Lodge in south Nanaimo after a fire badly damaged the property early Boxing Day. (Kyle Ireland/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

community support

Housing supports extended as community donations pour in for Nanaimo motel evacuees

Dec 30, 2025 | 3:53 PM

NANAIMO — Residents of a south-end motel, largely destroyed by fire, continue to receive support from multiple different places.

Around 35 people were left homeless after a Boxing Day fire at the Value Lodge on Nicol St., which started in the early morning hours on the second floor of the building.

In a Tuesday, Dec. 30 social media post, Nanaimo-Gabriola MLA Sheila Malcolmson said City and provincial resources continue to support those left with nowhere to go.

“While residents have not been able to return to the property, Emergency Support Services and the Province continue to support those displaced, with housing and food supports extended until Jan. 14. A meeting with evacuees and community partners is scheduled for [Tuesday] to discuss next steps and longer-term supports.”

In the immediate aftermath of the fire, those evacuated were tended to at Bowen Park.

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A number of fundraisers have been started in the days since the fire, including one campaign looking to raise $55,000 for victims of the motel fire.

As of Tuesday afternoon, just over $11,000 was collected.

Several other smaller GoFundMe campaigns for individual residents are being managed by family members.

Organizations throughout Nanaimo are collecting donations for the victims in a bid to help their immediate needs, including clothing and personal items.

Items in good, clean condition are being collected at Nanaimo-Ladysmith MP Tamara Kronis’ office at #3-3188 Barons Rd., with her office open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, then from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1.

Items being requested include clothing and footwear, working electronics for communication, winter gear, backpacks and everyday essential items.

The Nanaimo Salvation Army are also coordinating donations and helping those affected by the fire.

Monetary donations can also be made to the Nanaimo Family Life Association (250-754-3331) or through Connective Society, at 250-754-1266.

The outpouring of support has been so strong, Nanaimo Animal Control Services commented on Monday, they were unable to accept any more donations of pet-related items.

Neighbouring Alice’s Restaurant was unaffected by the fire, a fact owners attribute to a fire barrier in the building, and after a short closure reopened for service on Sunday, Dec. 28.

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