A fire in a East City home has displaced a Peterborough family of 11, and a relative has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to support them.
According to Amber Rose, who is organizing the fundraiser, a fire broke out at her late mother’s home early Tuesday (April 1) when the family was using the fireplace to heat the home during a power outage after the weekend ice storm.
Firefighters contained the fire at the home, located on McFarlane Street near Armour Road, by tearing down the walls surrounding the chimney.
“While we’re still waiting on a full assessment, it’s believed that the chimney allowed heat to escape into the walls, sparking the fire,” Amber writes on the GoFundMe page. “We are incredibly grateful that no one was physically harmed, but the home is now unlivable, and everyone who lived there has been displaced.”
That includes Amber’s sister Sharon and her fiancé Ryan and eight of their children, along with Amber’s and Sharon’s aunt.
“With Shannon and Ryan caring for both their large family and our aunt every day, this crisis has completely upended their lives,” Amber writes. “They are currently staying in a motel, but that is only covered for the next three days; after that, they’ll need to find alternative arrangements and support.”
Amber notes that the home, which was built by her grandfather in the 1950s, has been in her family for generations.
“It’s where our family grew up, gathered, and created countless cherished memories,” she writes. “To suddenly lose access to such a meaningful place has been truly heartbreaking.”
“This home has been especially important to my aunt, who has lived there her entire life. It’s the only home she’s ever known. My sister Shannon is her full-time caregiver, and the sudden displacement has left them feeling stressed and uncertain about what comes next.”
The GoFundMe aims to raise $20,000 from the community to help cover the family’s costs for shelter, food, clothing, and transportation, as well as any unexpected expenses and other costs as they await the outcome of an insurance claim and repairs.
As of the date of this story, over $4,000 has been raised.
“Shannon has always been the one to put others before herself, especially as she cares for her children and our aunt with love and dedication. Now, they need our support more than ever.
To donate to the GoFundMe campaign, visit gofundme.com/f/please-help-my-family-after-sudden-house-fire
