Support Topside Employees Affected by the Fire

On Tuesday, September 23, 2025 a fire forced Topside Bar & Grill located in Steilacoom, Washington; to close its doors. In our little town, this has deeply affected the heart of the community—45 to 50 employees are now without work.

While insurance will cover wages for 60 days if employees are “working” (cleaning, demolition, rebuilding, etc.), not everyone qualifies for unemployment, and those who do only receive part of their regular wages. This means many members of the Topside family are facing financial gaps.

This GoFundMe has been set up only to support Topside employees. Funds will help:

Cover the gap between unemployment and regular wages

Support employees who don’t qualify for unemployment

Continue helping staff if the closure lasts longer than 60 days

Niki and John, the owners, never ask for recognition—they’ve always given quietly to this community. Now, the community has a chance to give back to their team.

Every donation will go directly toward helping Topside employees bridge the gap while we work to rebuild.

For additional information, you can contact:

Shelly Riordan, Manager of Topside, Starlene Enfield, Liz Grasher, or

Hylan Hampton

Thank you for standing with our Topside family.

* This Go Fund Me was formally approved by John and Niki and your support is greatly appreciated.