Gofundme For Verona Fire Victims

Jun 21, 2023

The fire that destroyed Toppers Convenience Store in Verona, two weeks ago, also left two men homeless and without all of their belongings.

The two men, Tony Wand and Ed Ball had been living in the two units, at the back of the store, for a number of years. They have been staying with a local family, on a temporary basis, since the fire.

Jeff Ottenhof, a Verona resident who is a friend of both Tony and Ed, set up the Gofundme page last week.

“It is very difficult to find rent that they can afford in Verona, or the surrounding area, because housing prices are crazy high right now, but an opportunity for them in the Westbrook area is opening up. They need some help to recover, they lost everything,” Ottenhof said. “A lot of people know them from Toppers and the neighbourhood, and the response to the Gofundme has been better than I expected.”

The campaign, which started on June 7, has raised $5,015 and has a target of $7,500.

On the Gofundme page, Ottenhof describes Wand and Ball.

“Ed is well known for his contagious smile and great personality. He has been involved in our community for years and always lends a hand to anyone in need.

Tony has been a huge part of the Esso. He has been there many years and always greeted you with a smile, to pump your fuel or help however he can”.

There is still time to support the Gofundme campaign.

To find it, click here