Family seeking help for children

By Gerald V. Paul

Suraiya Gangaram, originally from Trinidad, leaves three girls. Allen Lacelles is charged in her death.
Suraiya Gangaram, originally from Trinidad, leaves three girls. Allen Lacelles is charged in her death.

Family and friends of murdered mother Suraiya Gangaram are asking for the community’s help as her three children face a future without their sole means of support.

Gangaram, stabbed to death in her Danzig Street townhouse Friday, leaves her daughters aged six, eight and 14. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago and moved to Canada.

Catherine Anne Clark, in a statement, said, “a campaign (is in place) to assist Satie (Gangaram’s sister) and family (who are) personally helping with funeral and all other needs at this time.

“They are seeking community support as Satie will need larger housing, clothing and education tools.  Please give what you can. Community Action,” the statement says.

Satie is arranging custody of the three of the three girls.

To cover immediate costs and future expenses, the family has set up a GoFundMe account to accept donations.

Allen Lascelles, charged in Gangaram’s death, is in hospital after being hit by a GO train. An ex-boyfriend, he was facing a previous assault charge involving Gangaram at the time of her death. Gangaram had agreed to meet him to exchange some personal belongings before she was stabbed.

Gangaram was a volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough. Ron Rock, executive director of the club, said she did her work well. “She wanted to help.”

In an online tribute, Ameena H. wrote: “My dearest Suraiya, I am deeply saddened that this has happened to one of the most caring generous, loving people I have ever known.

“I don’t know how I will ever overcome the loss of you. Rest in paradise, baby girl, until we meet again.”

Gerald V. Paul
Gerald V. Paul