North Simcoe Victim Services Launches Support Fund for Downtown Orillia Fire Victims

By: Press Release

North Simcoe Victim Services continue to provide support and assistance to any business or individual  directly affected by the recent fire tragedy in downtown Orillia.  

Major structure fire in historic Downtown Orillia that began early this morning (Jan. 21, 2025) at the corner of Mississaga Street and Peter Street.
Major structure fire in historic Downtown Orillia that began early this morning (Jan. 21, 2025) at the corner of Mississaga Street and Peter Street.

Community members have been looking for a way to help support the victims of this tragedy, and in  response, NSVS has set up a designated fund on our website in order to distribute additional funds and  assistance to anyone in need of financial assistance or mental and emotional support.  

If you wish to donate to the fund to help these victims in their immediate needs i.e. Electronics, household  expenses, recovery of equipment for businesses, emergency accommodation etc., donors can go to our  website www.ns-vs.com and find the “Downtown Orillia Fire Fund” button on the home page. All  donations will receive a charitable tax receipt and 100% of these funds will go towards the victims in our  community. Donations can also be made in person at our office at 1 University Ave by cheque or card, Mon Fri 9am – 4pm. For more information regarding donating to this fund, please contact Development  Director, Lynn Thomas lynn@ns-vs.com or 705 826 1671 

If you have been directly affected by the fire, a confidential application form is on our home page to fill out to apply for support. After review of your application, one of our staff members will contact you with details  of how to accept these funds, or resources. To speak to a staff member directly about these funds or our  services, please contact Executive Director, Kim Kneeshaw exdir@ns-vs.com or 705 325 5578 

This event was very traumatic for the entire community and NSVS Crisis Responders will be here to support  anyone in need of emotional and mental support to walk through steps to move forward in the aftermath  of this tragic event. Please contact our staff at 705 325 5578 if you wish to speak to someone.  

Fire Chief Chris Ferry oversaw the fire and has first-hand knowledge of how this tragedy affected the victims both as the emergency manager and as a NSVS Board member. “The recent fire in Downtown Orillia has  deeply affected our community and we appreciate all the organizations that are dedicated to ensuring  those impacted have access to the support and the resources they need.” 

Thank you to the community members and organizations who have been partnering with NSVS to assist  these victims. Our Lake Country region is remarkably supportive and resilient.