Many have begun to ask how they can support John and Gretchen Hoefer after a devastating house fire so I am creating this fundraiser on behalf of my brother, his wife, and their family.

Just before midnight on August 25, there was a fire at the Hoefer's house in Bloomington, IL. The fire started with an explosion, and the house burned completely to the ground. John, Gretchen, and six of their eight children (ages 9-25) were in the house at the time. Thankfully, all escaped, but each sustained varying degrees of injuries and burns. They were transported by ambulance and helicopter to three different regional burn centers, and extended family is with them at each hospital. Their son Zander was outside the house at the time and was thankfully uninjured. Their son Carl, who was away at basic training, has returned to be with his family.

We do not have a complete picture of how serious each person’s injuries are, but we do know that those most severely burned will need to be hospitalized for quite some time. All of them now face a long road of recovery.

In a matter of moments, John and Gretchen lost their home and belongings but they have their family, their faith in Jesus Christ, and an amazing support community .

Most of all, the family would deeply appreciate your prayers for John, Gretchen, and the kids, along with their doctors and caregivers and the entire family, including Zander, Carl, Evan’s fiancée Becky, and the grandparents.

If you would like to contribute financial assistance, you may donate here or contribute to their church’s benevolence fund by going to the church’s homepage East White Oak Bible Church and clicking on the “Give” tab. After entering the amount of your gift click “Benevolence”.

We have no way of knowing yet what their total expenses will be but all GoFundMe donations will go directly to the Hoefers to help with medical bills, food, temporary housing, replacing belongings, the loss of income while unable to work, and any gaps in insurance coverage. Thank you for supporting John, Gretchen, Evan, Margaret, Zander, Carl, Raymond, Philip, David, and Simon during this heartbreaking time.

"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31