Numerous charitable efforts are underway to aid a family of eight from Upper Gwynedd Township who lost nearly everything in last week’s fire along the 400 block of Carmichael Drive.
The family, since identified as the George-Reichley family — led by father, Michael, and mother, Deb — has found themselves on the receiving end of an outpouring of support from the community in the wake of the loss of their home and personal items. And they have definitely taken notice.
“My family is safe, and we are thankful,” said Michael, who works as a teacher at Pennbrook Middle School. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out to help. Deb and I are feeling the love and support. Family, friends, neighbors — thank you so much for thinking of us. We are going to be ok. Your thoughtfulness, generosity and support and the reason why. We are grateful to have you in our lives.”
Area fire companies were dispatched to the family’s home last Wednesday morning for a report of a residential fire. Arriving fire companies encountered a home that was fully involved with heavy flames and smoke, eventually leading to a second alarm being struck.
Michael and two of his young children were able to escape the home without injury, and the rest of the George-Reichley family was away at the time of the blaze, fire department officials said.
“First responders arrived at the scene and among them I saw former students — now grown men and women — here to help,” said Michael. “Know that I saw you and know how proud we are of the work you do. We’re thankful you all were able to do your jobs and stay safe. Our family appreciates you.”
The fire rendered the home uninhabitable, and the family has been staying with family members until they can figure out a more permanent housing solution, Michael said. Though there were no injuries, the family did lose nearly all of their personal belongings, from keepsake photos, artwork and journals to daily essentials including clothing the two parents and six children. But fortunately, the community quickly banded together to render immediate aid to the family.
Led by Michael Mohr, who created the George-Reichley Support Facebook Group, community members have rallied to aid and assist their neighbors in their time of need. A detailed list of essential items was quickly filled by generous donors, and a subsequent meal drive and GoFundMe were also launched to assist the family. The meal drive is almost entirely booked through Oct. 18, and the GoFundMe is currently at 70% of its $10,000 goal. (Note: to donate to either, click their respective links above.)
While the George-Reichley family may still be displaced, they’re remaining admirably optimistic, thanks to the kindness the community has shown them.
“Good will come out of this. We will pass it forward and you’ll be a part of that, too,” Michael said. “We’ll get back into our neighborhood. We will rebuild our home… but this time with a Bat Cave.”
See also:
Family of 8 Displaced After Two-Alarm Fire Destroys Upper Gwynedd Home
WATCH: Firefighters Dealing with Two-Alarm Residential Blaze in Upper Gwynedd
Vehicle Crash on Valley Forge Road Causes Local Power Outage, Shuts Down Road
Young Girl Airlifted to Hospital Following Incident at Nor-Gwyn Pool Late Thursday Afternoon
One Dead, Two Injured in Vehicle Crash on Sumneytown Pike Early Monday Morning
