Airdronians rallying for family after devastating home fire

A GoFundMe has been started for the Martin family who lost their home early Tuesday morning to a fire.

The fire had engulfed the two-storey home in the garage, extending to the second floor, with the fire spreading through the attic quickly. Fire crews were able to keep the fire contained to the original home. Four occupants of the home evacuated and were safe, including their dog.

Their next-door neighbour and family friend, Erin Heck, has sent out the call for help by starting a GoFundMe to help the Martin family get their necessities. Currently, around $2,000 has been fundraised for the family.

"I hope to be able to offer them something to be able to make those necessary purchases and create a little bit of normality while they're displaced."

Being next-door neighbours, Heck and her family were also evacuated from their home at the time of the fire and explained just how open their neighbourhood was to help everybody affected at the current time.

"I honestly didn't wake up until there were explosions, people yelling and people knocking on my door. Luckily, our department was already there. They (the Martin family)  heard their fire alarms but by the time they were trying to exit their house, the mom couldn't even see the kids behind her it was so smoky. It was a bit traumatic for the entire neighbourhood but people opened up their homes right away and were ready to help."

Photo of the home after the fire. Photo taken by Anna Ferensowicz.

"They deserve our kindness," stated Heck's six-year-old daughter.

Heck commended the first responders saying it was amazing to see them work.

"It started with one fire truck then turning into multiple teams and them working hard. I think they played a big role in actually saving our house from going up as well."

Multiple bags of items have been dropped off at Heck's house for the Martin family in this time of need.

"The community has been so wonderful, all kinds of people have offered to help in any way possible and it makes you proud to live here."

Heck finished off by saying the Martin family is one of a kind, very generous all the time and has no doubt if another family was in need they would help out in any way possible.

To contribute to the GoFundMe, click HERE. 

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