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Thunder Bay clothing designer starts fundraising campaign to feed earthquake victims

A Thunder Bay entrepreneur with ties to Nepal is seeking donations to help build a community kitchen to provide food and water to people affected by a devastating earthquake that’s killed more than 3,600.
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A Thunder Bay entrepreneur with ties to Nepal is seeking donations to help build a community kitchen to provide food and water to people affected by a devastating earthquake that’s killed more than 3,600.

Kyley Blomquist, who owns Elfarrow Apparel, started a Go Fund Me campaign and less than two days has already collected $6,126, surpassing her stated $5,000 goal.

“I have been traveling to Nepal for over 10 years through work and play and have established a facility there where our incredible team and partners produce Elfarrow clothing. Today I’ve been struck with the devastating news of the massive earthquake that took place in Kathmandu,” Blomquist writes in making her fundraising appeal.

The earthquake registered 7.8 on the Richter scale.

Blomquist, who is the clothing line’s designer and producer, says her facility in Nepal consists of two 70-foot printing tables and three buildings , all of which were reduced to one story in the quake.

“Unfortunately most of what else stands around the community crumbled. Right now we have 130 people (15 children) in our factory grounds where we have given the space for sleep and safety,” she said.

“Today we quickly formed a community kitchen with what we had and what could be collected. But tomorrow is another day. And the amount of time it could take to get people back to their regular lives and spaces is unknown.”

To date 94 people have made donations, including a $20 bequest from Rebekkah Dodds.

“Sending our love,” Dodds said. “Hope we can help in even a small way.”

Jessica Tanner also chipped in $20.

“Thank you for stepping up and helping the community where you are established. Corporate responsibility is so important and you have gone above and beyond. Keep up the good work," Tanner says.

One anonymous donor gave $1,000.
 



Leith Dunick

About the Author: Leith Dunick

A proud Nova Scotian who has called Thunder Bay home since 2002, Leith is Dougall Media's director of news, but still likes to tell your stories too. Wants his Expos back and to see Neil Young at least one more time. Twitter: @LeithDunick
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