Help pours in for La Brea fire victim

Help has poured in for fire victim Toola Odai, as people across the country have now joined with residents of Sobo Village, La Brea, to help build the 65-year-old a new home.

On Saturday Odai’s home was destroyed in a fire.

Odai, a former mechanic, left his home to go by a nearby parlour when the fire started inside his small wooden and galvanize house around 6.30 pm. Fire officers suspect a lamp that was left alight may have started the fire.

Residents said they started pooling resources but do not have enough materials to build a new house for him, so they asked for help and good Samaritans responded.

Three business owners have now promised to buy materials for a one-bedroom home, and sheets of galvanize are expected to be delivered over the weekend.

Odai said, “I am extremely thankful for all the help. I really did not think that people who don't know me would help me. I am really touched. I appreciate this.”

Herbert Tyson said the materials were a great start and he hopes more people will help.

“It is really amazing what we can do when we come together and I am hopeful that many more people will come on board to build a home for Mr Odai so he can again have a place to call home.”

Another resident, Leander William,s said she was overwhelmed by the support.

“This is such a great start. I am so grateful, and I want to say if you can help in any way by donating, clothes, food items, and more building materials,we will be so grateful. Please help.”

Anyone wishing to help Odai can call 722-4274.