Fire Recovery Update

The Bergman family has settled into their new home in Old Town this week. Joanne remains deeply grateful for the support and concern from her Ruston neighbors after a fire destroyed their home on June 3rd. The family was technically tenants at the time of the fire and had no insurance to cover their losses. Neighbors have collected almost $250 to help so far.

Joanne said the cash helped get her into her new place, but even more important is the emotional support she has received. She always believed that people were kind and generous, but when it became personal like this, its has been overwhelming. She is humbled and deeply grateful.

The basic household needs have been met so far. Joanne claims she's always been a great thrift store shopper and those skills have come in handy. They are slowly rebuilding. Loosing all your material possessions, but knowing your family is safe puts it all in perspective. Somehow the "stuff" doesn't matter as much anymore.

Even though the Bergman family is safe and has a roof over their heads, it feels good as neighbors to help get them started on a new chapter in their lives. You can still make donations at the Tacoma Narrows Federal Credit Union at the bottom of 51st Street to the Bergman Family Fire Fund, or in the donation buckets at Don's Market or Town Hall.