Family with Fire- Ways to Help, this week!

New friends, a new to Granville family had a fire in their home.  I found out on Facebook- the group Parents in the Know. Someone shared the TV10 post asking if anyone knew the family by the picture of the house.  I did. I called immediately and my sweet new friend gave me the scoop.  Bottom line- everyone safe- family of four with the cats.  Dear 9 year old to the rescue alerting the family and making sure cats included in escape.  The immediate concern was of course for the kids including a birthday party planned at the house.  More info here: https://www.newarkadvocate.com/story/news/local/2019/05/03/granville-family-escapes-friday-morning-house-fire-after-child-notices-smoke/3661200002/  The fire was in the attic, however smoke and water brought damage to household items including clothes.  This family is working with insurance and figuring out temporary housing beyond their suite hotel in New Albany.

I took notes, shared an update on the Facebook page and voila- Granville friends responded- dropping off what was requested immediately.  So many people responded asking for more details.  I pow-wowed with the family's dearest friend/care coordinator, Emily, agreeing we would ask folks to help to keep things simple, recognizing there would be many phases to care and they don't have much storage space right now.  The Target and CVS gift cards delivered was a huge help, the new PJs a wonderful idea, well done Granville.  We also agreed- the birthday party must go on and made a plan.

Doing my best to help those that want to help, here is a link to the sign-up genius- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0e49a4a723a1f94-nekos  lets throw a birthday party, this Saturday at The Works!  I'm working DU Commencement but Emily will get it done.  I'm collecting supplies on my front porch in a box- 1142 NG Road!  Also, gift cards still needed and appreciated- gas cards, places you can get basic things and then future clothes, dining in Granville/Licking County appreciated as well.  The box is safe, we have many people coming and going and will empty the box often.  Please include your name, let me know when you drop to help with security and thank yous!!! Those donating clothes- I'm going to store these and invite the family over to "shop" what isn't used will be donated.

Thank you, Granville and Licking County, for showing this family how we care for one another, support one another when not so good things happen. It could have been much worse, but honestly, I can't imagine the disruption, the sentimental items gone.  Talk to your kids about what you are doing and how you are helping- we learn and teach philanthropy and community care at home.  I know many are helping in other ways, school party- thank you for that. Questions, ideas- feel free to reach out to me.  Stay tuned we all agree this is a long process, there will be other ways to help.

Great party- thank you, thank you, thank you for all the support and love and help! This family feels the love and support! They move into to temp house on Monday- woo hoo! Life on Newark-Granivlle Road was full today- 5-18-19, this was a highlight!