Iqalummiut came together in a show of community support after a devastating fire broke out at the 1088 complex, known as 'Noble House,' on Mivvik Street during the evening of Jan. 8.

The blaze started around 5:30 p.m. in the prominent downtown location across from Yummy Shawarma, where residents fleeing the emergency initially took refuge before the City of Iqaluit and the Royal Canadian Legion established a warming shelter at the Cadet Hall, opening after 9 p.m.

After hours of being in flames, Noble House collapsed at approximately 1 a.m., according to the . There were no reports of injuries or missing persons, the police stated. The , the Iqaluit Fire Department and the Nunavut Fire MarshalSA国际影视传媒檚 Office are investigating.

Almost immediately, and before the blaze was even fully contained, residents began donating needed items locally and money to a GoFundMe account, which surpassed $20,000 in 15 hours, despite a $10,000 goal.

The temporary shelter at the Cadet Hall accommodated several families, including some residents with small children and expectant mothers. Piviniit Thrift Store also announced that it would continue with its regular Thursday night hours, but as an open house for affected residents to pick any items that are needed.

Shereese Porter, a resident of Noble House, was leaving her workplace shortly after the blaze began.

"It was just smoke everywhere," Porter said of the scene. She described her reaction as "a mixture of numbness and devastation" but also "hopeful... right now at this moment, just tired.

"We have support within the community: church groups, and colleagues of my husband, and the school that my daughter goes to. [They're] coping... I'm just happy that we're OK, we're healthy," she added. "It's just another opportunity to rebuild. I just have to put myself mentally into that space because going the other way isn't helpful."

Besides apartments, at least two businesses, including the MAC African Market and the warehouse for Nunavut Marketing, were also located in the razed building.

As of Friday, volunteers, tote bags, luggage, vehicles and drivers were still in need. Any interested volunteers are asked to report to the cadet hall.

"The City of Iqaluit continues to address the impacts of the fire at 1088 Noble House with the dedicated efforts of the Iqaluit Fire Department, Public Works, and recreation staff," the municipality stated in a Friday morning news release. "These teams have been working tirelessly since 19:30 (7:30 p.m. on Jan. 8), and continued their efforts overnight to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents. "

To support those affected, the Cadet Hall warming shelter remains open. The facility offers donated clothing, meals and snacks, along with on-site assistance from recreation staff. Displaced residents are encouraged to visit for warmth, comfort and support. For residents who had been living in a Nunavut Housing Corporation (NHC) unit, please contact 867-222-1304 for inquiries related to housing or other NHC services.

SA国际影视传媒淚n challenging moments like these, the compassion and generosity of our community shine brightest,SA国际影视传媒� the city stated in its news release. SA国际影视传媒淭he incredible support shown has provided essential relief to those affected, and the city extends heartfelt thanks to the following organizations, businesses, and individuals for their contributions: The Legion and Nunavut Excavating; Arctic Ventures; Chrono Aviation; C&K Services; Canaps Security; Yummy Shawarma.SA国际影视传媒�