A benefit concert for the Penelakut Island families and elders who lost their homes and possessions to a recent fire will be held at the Chemainus Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion on Feb. 15 from 1 to 5 p.m.
The musical lineup includes Tom Morrissey, Nate Harris, Copper Canyon, The Hardware Girls, Ed Peekeekoot, and JoHannah Knight. The Stz’uminus Young Wolves Dance group will also take to the stage.
A suggested donation of $20 is being asked for, with proceeds going toward rehousing those displaced by the fire and replacing lost possessions.
If you can’t make it to the concert, you can also donate via a fundraising campaign set up by Penelakut band member Connie Crocker.
“Penelakut had a housing crisis as it was, the six-plex was incredibly important affordable housing for the families and elders that lived there,” said Crocker. “They have lost literally everything and will need to replace everything including being re-housed in the greatly more expensive off-reserve rental market.”
The benefit concert is a chance for the wider community to stand in solidarity with Penelakut families and offer their support in rebuilding what was lost.
