You may have heard about the house fire in Ethel St – a place that is close to our heart. 

Ethel St is where FAN began, where we held street parties for years, where our 1st community garden is situated, and where many of our trustees, members and supporters still live.  So, when we heard the news, of course we wanted to help!

The family who own the house recently separated, leaving a mother and 3 young children living there. She did not know the insurance had just lapsed.  On their daughter’s 10th birthday, while she was out for a birthday treat with her mum, the house caught fire.  Neighbours responded quickly, calling the fire brigade, but they returned home to find their house damaged by fire, smoke, and water, and many of their belongings destroyed.  They do not have the money to repair and replace what is lost.

Along with family and neighbours, they are still clearing the house of debris and cleaning up the mess - a cost of £9000 was quoted for professional cleaning.

We don’t have a full list yet of what may need replacing. However, notable damage includes a blown and melted window, a tv melted to a wall and tv unit destroyed, and a hole in a wall that the fire brigade had to break through to check for internal flames. 

We are creating this fund so we can help with the costs as they arise – would you be able to help - whether with a donation, trade skills that may be useful, or even just a share? 

❤️ Together we can make a huge difference to this young family ❤️