UPDATE: Tumbler Ridge is receiving an outpouring of global support following a devastating mass shooting in the community. In the wake of this tragedy, local restaurant owner Wendy Trueit has taken it upon herself to provide free meals to first responders and the grieving families, and the response has been overwhelming.
Just hours after the incident, Trueit, co-owner of Twisted Seasons Bistro, began offering meals to those affected. “We’ve had people from the U.S., Connecticut, where they’ve faced similar tragedies, reach out asking, ‘What can we do to help?’” Trueit shared. “We suggested pre-paying for food for those in need, and the support started pouring in.”
The community has received donations amounting to thousands of dollars from hundreds of supporters around the globe, including contributions from Canada and Europe. This funding is dedicated to feeding healthcare workers, paramedics, police officers, and firefighters, as well as families mourning their loved ones.
Trueit expressed her surprise at the generosity. “I never expected people would send money to help feed the community,” she noted. “But I’m committed to providing meals for as long as it’s needed.”
The kindness has extended beyond meal donations. Ted Ember, a resident from nearby Fort St. John, made the two-hour trip to Tumbler Ridge to deliver bouquets of flowers from friends and coworkers. “I started picking up flowers, and soon strangers joined in to show their support,” Ember recounted. “It was heartwarming to see people come together for Tumbler Ridge.”
In addition to local efforts, GoFundMe campaigns for the victims have collectively raised over $1 million. Trueit confirmed that her restaurant will also provide free meals on the first day back to school for students and staff at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
“Support has been incredible,” she said. A school in Vancouver even offered to cover meal costs for the community, with Northern Health stepping in to assist with logistics. “They assured us they could organize chefs and staff to help,” Trueit added.
As the community grapples with its loss, the kindness of strangers shines as a beacon of hope. “It definitely makes you look at the positive in the world,” Trueit remarked, highlighting the impact of community solidarity in dark times.
As Tumbler Ridge continues to heal, the ongoing support from both near and far underscores the resilience of this small community. The shared love and compassion from around the globe serve as reminders that even in tragedy, humanity can unite to uplift those in need.
Stay tuned for more updates as Tumbler Ridge navigates this challenging period and continues to receive support from around the world.
