Youngster loses life savings in fire - Farm resident seeks assistance to rebuild home

Chester Blake stared blankly at the spot where his one-room dwelling once stood. He then released a sigh before relating the story of how he lost his house approximately three years ago. The house, he said, was set ablaze by thugs in Effortville, Clarendon.

Not only did the fire burn the building, its furniture and his clothes, but it also reduced his life savings to ash.

Blake, at the time, was 17. He had just left school and gained employment in a supermarket.

"For about two years, it was like I was going crazy. At the time I was working $9,600 and after I take out lunch money and taxi fare, I would save $4,000 each week. I had saved up $90,000, and all of that burned up in the house. It was not a lot, but it was all of my life savings. I lost my birth certificate and everything. I just get back those documents," he said.

Effortville, more commonly known as Farm, has been plagued by criminal activities for years. According to Blake, he is one of the unlucky victims, stating that he was never involved in any wrongdoing and he wasn't a lawbreaker.

"I have no idea who burned down my house or anything. I just know there was a gang war going on. I was getting ready for work about 4:30 a.m. I heard a knock on the door and men voice saying: 'Police, open up'. I didn't open the door because I didn't know who was really outside. Next ting me hear is a man a ask if dem sure a the right house. The door kick in next, and a bottle bomb drop in there," he said.

Blake, 20, has since landed a new job, but he has been struggling to rebuild his life.

"It has been really hard and I would appreciate even one of the house that Food for the Poor offers. I have been saving so I can buy back some of the items that I lost, but I am just seeking a little help to have the house rebuilt so I can be a bit more comfortable. Right now, where I am living is very uncomfortable, but I just have to work with it until better comes," he said.

Persons wishing to assist Chester Blake may contact Justice of the Peace Myrtle Roy at 876-580-2109.