A Note of Thanks from the Baker Family

Over the past days, our family has been reminded in the most powerful way how much love and kindness surrounds us. The meals dropped off, the helping hands with cleaning, the offers of a place to stay, the prayers, donations, and messages has all lifted us up more than words can describe.

This experience has been overwhelming, but not just because of what we’ve gone through, it’s because of the incredible outpouring of support we’ve received. Knowing that so many people are standing with us has given us strength and hope as we take each step forward.

We are deeply grateful and truly blessed. Thank you for showing up for us, for thinking of us, and for reminding us of the power of community, friendship, and family.

With love,

The Baker Family

Dear Friends,

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting the Baker family, then you already know the kind of genuine kindness and selflessness they embody. Tommy, Jillian, and their two children, Zoey and Barrett, are always the first to lend a hand. After hurricanes, they’ve been out in the community with their Little League distributing supplies. Jillian is known for baking cakes for children in the community and running the concession stand at the field. Sixteen-year-old Zoey loves all animals and rescues and fosters stray animals whenever she can, while thirteen-year-old Barrett is the kind of loyal and supportive friend every child hopes to have. Tommy has long been a pillar in the community, giving his time and energy to organizations like Little League, Reconstructing Hope and NAMI, always ready to step in—whether it’s fixing a plumbing emergency for neighbors, helping a fellow blue collar man in need or simply being there for someone who needs a shoulder to lean on.

On September 6th, the Bakers received a call no family ever wants to hear. While they were out to dinner, a fire broke out in their home. Zoey was the first to arrive back with a friend, and alongside her grandparents, Tom and Linda, and a compassionate neighbor, they did all they could to rescue the family’s pets. Heartbreakingly, the Bakers lost two of their beloved dogs in the fire. While they are beyond grateful that all family members made it out safely, the loss of their furry companions has left them devastated.

Though insurance will cover the cost to rebuild their home, it does not cover the contents lost in the fire or the expenses of temporary housing. Nearly all of their furniture and belongings are unsalvageable, and it will be many months before they can return home. Tommy and Jillian would never ask for help themselves, so we are asking on their behalf. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference as they begin to rebuild their lives. And if you are unable to give, we ask that you keep the Baker family in your thoughts and prayers.

We created this GoFundMe on behalf of our daughter’s family to help with expenses (personal belongings, and temporary housing expenses, due to the fire). All funds will be directly transferred to Tommy and Jillian upon fundraiser completion. On behalf of the Bakers, thank you for your love, support, and kindness. Tom & Linda Goossens