DEWITT COUNTY, Ill. (Chambana Today) — A house fire in DeWitt County left a family displaced but unharmed on Monday afternoon. The Weldon Fire Department responded to the fire at approximately 12:24 p.m. on Route 10, about a mile west of Weldon.
Fire Chief Tyler Yokley reported that high winds caused the fire to spread rapidly throughout the home, resulting in a “total loss” of the structure. Fortunately, the family was able to escape safely, and no one was injured. The Red Cross is assisting with temporary housing and resources.
Here is a list of clothing items that are needed for the family:
For the father:
-
2x-3x shirts/hoodies
-
42/30 pants / 2x sweatpants
-
2x boxers
-
Size 9.5 shoes
For the mother:
-
2x shirts/hoodies
-
2x sweatpants / 18 pants
-
XL-XXL underwear
-
Size 9.5 shoes
For the 4-year-old daughter:
-
4T shirts/pants/sweat outfits
-
4T underwear
-
Size 9 shoes
Due to the difficult firefighting conditions, additional support was needed from several neighboring fire departments and emergency services:
- Deland Fire Protection District
- Clinton Fire Department
- Farmer City Fire Protection District
- Cisco Fire Protection District
- Maroa Fire Department
- Kenney Fire Department
- Argenta-Oreana Fire Department
- Wapella Fire Department
- DeWitt County EMS
- DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office
- DeWitt County EMA
- Village of Weldon
- Nixon Township
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, according to fire officials. The family is now working to rebuild their lives, and members of the community are being asked to help. They released a statement, reflecting their gratitude for the community’s support in their time of need: “The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support they’ve received this week. Things can be replaced, but lives cannot. There is a long road ahead, and immediate needs include basic necessities such as food and shelter.”
A GoFundMe account has been set up to accept both monetary donations and physical items to help the family get back on their feet. Those interested in donating can visit this link.
