Historic Home Fire Displaces Young Family

Historic Home Fire Leaves Young Family Without Home or Car!​

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A few words from Scott: 

I cannot imagine a more deserving family. This is what altruism and charitableness is all about. This lovely family will recover. You bet they will. This is our opportunity to lift them with a palm of assistance, to shorten and lighten their period of recovery.

ALSO SEE: Allegan County News February 17, 2022 for more information

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                    Contributed by Cyndi Reed 

A devastating fire in their home in the Marshall Street Historic District of Allegan, Michigan, has left the family that now calls it home without a home. This unique historic house was built in 1870 by Civil War Captain Almeron Calkins, of the 4th Michigan Calvary with reward money he received for actions in the war. 

Chris and Amanda, their two small children, a three year old son and 15 month daughter, and their pets can’t go home or use any of their things still inside. They find themselves without their home, clothes, toys and many of the items that help children feel safe and happy. 

 The family’s current priority is to replace the only working vehicle they had. It was parked outside the garage and also caught fire, but insurance won't replace it. Now Chris, an Army Veteran and skilled mechanic, doesn’t have a reliable way to get to work in Holland, the family’s only regular paycheck. This is where you can help! Feel free to donate toward a car now and/or read on for more detail. 

An electrical fire started in the garage which burned to the ground. It was attached to the home with an entry/laundry room/storage area that was also completely destroyed. This joined the kitchen where the common wall and part of the kitchen were badly damaged as well. The original 1870’s part of the home was saved by firefighters with the exception of part of the kitchen involved and a built-in secretary desk. Everything that wasn't burned in the fire has to go through a special cleaning process. 

It’ll eventually be put right, but it’s going to take time. 

Chris was working on rebuilding a small SUV for his wife, but that vehicle and all the parts that had been painstakingly gathered for it -- including a second wreck for parts -- went up in smoke. As did Chris’s Army mementos, all of their holiday decorations, camping equipment, and those many things families take years to acquire. 

Amanda, a talented photographer, will have to put much of her home-based business on hold while she manages taking care of the children and all the other things she has on her plate because of the fire and upcoming rebuild. 

 Most importantly everyone is now safe. Although the parents suffered some smoke inhalation, they got the children and dog out before they were exposed. Amazingly, their cat was saved by a fire fighter just in time and given oxygen. Both pets are being treated and recovering well. 

Please help this family afford a modest vehicle so Chris can get to work and they can start rebuilding their life. 

Thank you for taking time to read this and for any help you can send. Any amount will make a big difference and will be deeply appreciated.