In the wake of tragedy, a Nova Scotia food truck is proving that community spirit remains alive and well in Canada’s Maritime provinces. When flames engulfed a residence in Westville last weekend, leaving several people without homes, local food truck operator Derrick MacLean knew he had to take action.
“When I heard about the fire, it hit close to home,” MacLean told CO24 News. “In small communities like ours, we don’t just stand by when neighbors are suffering—we step up.”
MacLean’s food truck, “Derrick’s Street Eats,” has become a focal point for community support, with 100 percent of proceeds from this weekend’s sales being directed to the displaced families. The initiative has already raised over $3,000, with MacLean expecting that figure to double by Sunday evening.
The devastating blaze, which authorities believe started in the early hours of February 3rd, completely destroyed the multi-unit building on Main Street. Fire Chief Tom Steele confirmed that while all residents escaped without physical injury, the emotional and financial toll has been immense.
“These folks lost everything—family photos, heirlooms, clothing, and basic necessities,” Steele explained. “The immediate outpouring of support from businesses like Derrick’s shows the true character of Nova Scotians.”
Local resident Sarah Matheson, who has been coordinating additional relief efforts, notes that the response extends beyond monetary donations. “We’ve collected clothing, furniture, and household items. Several local hotels have even offered temporary accommodations,” she said.
The fundraiser has caught the attention of provincial officials, with local MLA Pat Dunn making an appearance at the food truck on Saturday afternoon. “This exemplifies the resilience and compassion that defines our province,” Dunn remarked while ordering what he called “the best fish and chips in the county.”
For MacLean, whose popular food truck specializes in traditional Maritime fare with modern twists, the initiative represents more than charity—it’s about building stronger community bonds. “Food brings people together in good times and bad,” he reflected. “If my cooking can help these families rebuild, that’s more satisfying than any business success.”
The Canadian Red Cross has also stepped in to provide emergency assistance, but representatives acknowledge that community-based efforts like MacLean’s food truck fundraiser often deliver the most immediate and personalized support.
As Nova Scotia continues to face economic challenges and housing shortages, disasters like this residential fire highlight the vulnerability many citizens face. Without adequate insurance or savings, sudden displacement can lead to prolonged financial hardship.
Looking ahead, community organizers are planning additional fundraising events throughout February, including a benefit concert at the local high school. Meanwhile, MacLean has pledged to continue donating a portion of his proceeds to the affected families throughout the coming month.
As we witness this remarkable display of community support, one question remains: In an era of increasing individualism, can grassroots efforts like this food truck fundraiser inspire a broader return to the community-centered values that once defined small-town Canada?
For those wishing to contribute to the relief effort, donation information can be found on the CO24 News website under community initiatives.
