My parents, Erick and Tina Sawtelle's home in Lee, NH was destroyed by fire in the early morning hours of January 26, 2024. We don't know exact details at this time but it seems to have started in the wall of the second floor and fully engulfed the roof, and second story with excessive water damage in the remainder.

The most important part is that everyone is ok, including their dog, Dotty and cat, Seabass. It is unknown what will be able to be recovered, if anything, from what remains. My grandmother lives near by so they will have a place to stay while they figure out the next steps.

My parents are well known in town for service to the community, selflessly helping others in times of need, as well as bringing light to others on a daily basis with their farm goods, including my mom's much loved flower business.

They are fully self employed with the farm and it is unknown how quickly they will be able to return to generating income through these means, as much of their business supplies and inventory were located inside the house. My dad is long past retirement age, but everyone who knows him knows that he's too stubborn to ever stop working . They live extremely modestly, so the contents of their home are not expensive, but the loss of their material possessions, business supplies, and home will be significant.

They do have insurance but, as we all know, the process can be long and grueling before any coverage is determined , and to what extent it will be able to help with the losses.

My parents are humble people and will hate the thought of requesting help, but this is a time when they are in need, and i have no doubt their community will show up for them with the same care and support that they have given to so many others over the years.

We have no idea what will be needed for finances, so I am pulling a number out of thin air, but I can say for them, that any contribution to their recovery will be a blessing and much appreciated.

If you feel compelled to put a little something in their pocket today, my mom's venmo is @TinaFottler-Sawtelle

Thanks for your help ❤️