On the morning of Tuesday, December 16, my sister Wendy and her partner Harold suffered a heartbreaking tragedy when their off-grid log homestead near Clayton, Ontario, was destroyed by fire. 

Wendy was working in home office when the dogs began barking and alerted her to something happening outside. She looked outside and saw her and Harold's worst fear – fire. 

The generator shelter was on fire; wind was blowing flames straight toward the log house. By the time she called 911, grabbed both dogs, the house cat and the keys to the old farm truck, the house was filled with black smoke. She drove herself and the animals across the road to a safe place. Harold had gone to pick up chicken feed and returned, almost immediately after getting text, just in time to see their home engulfed by flames. Everything they owned was lost in a matter of minutes. 

Wendy and Harold are very appreciative and grateful for the efforts of the Lanark Highlands volunteer fire department who were able to keep the fire from spreading to the small barn and chicken pen. 

Thank you, also, to the Lanark/Mississippi Mills Red Cross branch for providing immediate assistance after the devastating event. 

They are especially thankful to the many friends and neighbours who have already assisted them during their time of need, especially the use of the hunting cabin across the road so they can easily travel back and forth to feed the farm animals. 

 I've started this campaign to assist Wendy and Harold, in their “young” senior years, to rebuild after the loss of their home – especially with no insurance coverage. 

Donations will help with immediate expenses, replace lost items, clean up the wreckage and rebuild. 

In the spring, once the ground thaws and snow melts, clean up will begin and they will start rebuilding. The firemen advised not to use the logs, but start fresh. 

Thank you for considering a donation to help them start over. Any support you can provide, will make a significant difference.

Thank you all for your thoughtfulness and kindness.