Port Coquitlam to hold activity day for students impacted by Hazel Trembath fire

The City of Port Coquitlam is hosting a free activity day for students, staff, and teachers of Hazel Trembath Elementary School after the school burnt down on Saturday.

The city says those affected by the fire are invited to drop-in for swimming, skating, basketball and soccer at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre on Wednesday. Activities featuring Lego, Puzzle Cubes and Ozobots will also be held at the Terry Fox Library.

The fire at Hazel Trembath happened early Saturday morning and turned the entire school to ash. It has been deemed “suspicious” by the Coquitlam RCMP and is currently under investigation.

The city says more than 220 students were displaced by the fire and it’s working diligently to support each of them. Part of that support will include providing a “positive experience” for students through the free activities at the PCCC and Terry Fox Library on Wednesday.

“It’s been a very challenging time for the Hazel Trembath community. I know how hard it has been for the kids to be away from their classmates, teachers and school staff while they process everything that has happened,” Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West said.

“We wanted to find a way to bring the Hazel community together to connect, have some fun, and provide space for everyone to see each other in a positive environment. I’m very proud that our city is stepping up to make this happen.”

Port Coquitlam Fire and Emergency Services will also be on-site for the activities from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m., so kids can come talk to firefighters, learn about fire safety, and see firefighting equipment up close.

A day camp will also be held, from 9:05 a.m. until 2:45 p.m., for parents looking to drop their kids off.

-With files from Raynaldo Suarez