Denham Town fire victims to get new homes

A measure of hope has been restored for victims of the fire that destroyed several homes in the west Kingston community of Denham Town last Saturday, leaving losses estimated at more than $20 million.

Ashtrom International, an Israeli construction company, yesterday donated eight prefabricated homes, which it said would be in place in two weeks.

The Government also stepped in to assist, handing out beds, stoves and other household items to several families.

Prime Minister visits

The assistance came during a visit by Prime Minister Bruce Golding, who is also the member of parliament for the area, and Mayor of Kingston, Desmond McKenzie.

One of the victims, Nigel Gray, said he was grateful for the quick response to their plight.

"I'm overwhelmed, knowing that we get burn out (four days ago) and today we have a mattress to sleep on," he told The Gleaner.

"It hard and we would a love some more assistance," added Gray, whose home at 15 Tulip Lane was completely gutted.

Vice-president of Ashtrom International, Abraham Subocki said the construction plans for the prefabricated houses, which were built for one of its customers, would be sent to the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation today for approval.

McKenzie promised that the council would fast-track the approval process.

Subocki said the house would be erected as a two-storey structure, adding that by next week his company will begin to level and clear the site.

"We are going to be moving as fast as we can," he assured Golding.

The prime minister urged those affected to make arrangement to stay with other family members until the work is completed.