A family friends house caught fire tonight. Fire officials saying it likely occured due to old outlet or something to that effect. They have 4 kids ages 12, 8, 6, and 4. They lost everything. Smoke damage seems to be too much to really salvage anything. The kids basically have the clothes on their back and that's about it. Obviously, they are devistated. I want to help but I don't really know what to do. I will probably give them some of my daughters clothes but that will only help their 6 year old daughter. Their other kids are boys. I don't really have much money to be able to help them in any way that would make an impact. I've thought about doing something that could generate some donations of clothes or money but I'm not sure what exactly. Does anybody have any suggestions? Please be specific as possible. I've never had to deal with anything like this and I'm not sure how to handle it. Thanks.
2007-08-29 19:33:20 · 5 answers · asked by whatever22 2 in Family & Relationships ➔ Other - Family & Relationships
I would offer the use of your home office / telephone number / computer for use when they need to make phone calls / follow up with insurance , etc. I would give them complete privacy when they would come to use the office / and do not let concern / your curiousity question them . Let them share or not share how they feel / what is going on with you when they are ready. Let them know that they are not expected to visit / be social . They can knock on your door / come and go as please. Hotels are not the best place to conduct personal business. Business centers can have 2 computers / one printer for 100 guests. 10 minute limit per person.
I'd also offer a visa gift card , even 25 might buy a pizza meal for the family. Not sure of their financial situation / what cash is on hand if they will have immediate access to credit cards that they may not have had with them at the time of fire. A prepaid cell phone is not a bad idea.
Just come out and let them know that if they think of anything else they need / you are available would like the opportunity to step up and help. Maybe it is just childcare while they meet with insurance , go find temporary apartment, etc.
My aunt / uncle and cousins had this happen TWICE to them.
2007-08-29 19:54:35 · answer #1 · answered by Mildred S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was a kid our house burnt down. Somebody gave us a tent and some blankets and we lived in the front yard for awhile. Put an add in the local news paper that any donations of money or material items would greatly be appreciated run it for a week give a bank account number for cash donations. Pray to God as a whole family and believe in your hearts that he will get you through these trying times. Walk by faith not by sight.
GOOD LUCK
GOD BLESS!!
2007-08-30 02:55:55 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I had a coworker who lost his home and 2 daughters in a house fire..very sad. We put a jar up in our restaraunt ro fill with money for donations. We also asked local merchants for help. Have a carwash...a multi family yard sale. Put an add in the paper for free donations for them. Set up a bank account in your name but have it setup for donations and adveritse in papers and even on street corners. What can it hurt?
2007-08-30 02:39:06 · answer #3 · answered by Jen22 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Please call the Red Cross, they will help the family right now.
Think about setting up a fund at a local bank to help them.
Organize a neighborhood garage sale or car wash to raise money for them. Good luck!
2007-08-30 02:42:09 · answer #4 · answered by handyman7799 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
where ever you live there must be hospice and a red cross and places like that tell them your plight and that you need help for them and that will help them and they will help you start something to hosue and clothe them.
2007-09-02 22:22:57 · answer #5 · answered by Tsunami 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋