Brittany Holmgren, a lifelong resident of Denare Beach, has experienced both the joys and sorrows of her hometown. In June, a devastating wildfire swept through the village in northeastern Saskatchewan, causing significant destruction. Holmgren, a 33-year-old mother, lost her home and workplace in the blaze, leaving her with almost nothing. Along with many other residents in the close-knit community of 700 people, she is now faced with the daunting task of rebuilding her life.
Following the fire, Holmgren and her two young daughters had to move in with her mother in Flin Flon, Manitoba, while her two dogs remained in her camper in Denare Beach due to compatibility issues with other dogs. The impact of the fire extended to her daughters’ father, whose home was also destroyed. Despite the challenges, Holmgren’s four-year-old daughter has shown remarkable resilience in coping with the loss.
Denare Beach, nestled in the Canadian Shield region surrounded by picturesque landscapes, typically attracts tourists during the summer months. However, for the permanent residents, finding new accommodation has been a struggle. Rental prices in the area have surged post-fire, with Holmgren highlighting the steep increase compared to her previous housing costs.
Jennifer Hysert, another resident affected by the wildfire, shared her family’s temporary living arrangements in a camper within a warehouse in Flin Flon as they work towards rebuilding. She expressed concerns about price hikes for essential goods and services in the aftermath of the fire, echoing the sentiments of other villagers.
In response to the housing crisis, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has initiated the placement of temporary trailers in Denare Beach and nearby Creighton to accommodate displaced residents. While some have already begun transitioning to these temporary units, Holmgren expressed reservations about their suitability for her family. The limited availability of trailers in Denare Beach has further complicated the decision-making process for residents seeking stable housing solutions.
Village councillor Karen Thomson acknowledged the financial strain on the community, anticipating a drop in tax and utility revenues. Despite the challenges, she remains optimistic about the village’s recovery, emphasizing the resilience and determination of residents. However, questions linger about the government’s response to the wildfire, with affected individuals like Hysert demanding accountability for perceived negligence.
As Denare Beach navigates the aftermath of the wildfire and the ongoing recovery efforts, the community is rallying together to rebuild and restore a sense of normalcy. The unwavering spirit of its residents, coupled with external support, fuels hope for a brighter future despite the adversities faced.
