Benefit for fire victims planned
LOWER TYRONE TWP. — On a chilly March afternoon, two Connellsville Township families were uprooted from their rental home when fire swept through the River Avenue duplex.
One family, Gerald and Salvia Leapline and their two young children, is still struggling to find a home and replace all of their household goods.
On Sunday, a few of their friends are hoping to lessen that struggle and get them back on their feet and into a home they can call their own.
The benefit will take place at Linden Hall, 432 Linden Hall Road, Dawson, beginning at 11 a.m.
“It’s been tough for them,” said Tina Graft, event organizer. “I can’t imagine losing everything, or starting over.”
While the fire started in the adjoining duplex, smoke and water damage destroyed bedding, clothing, electronic equipment and other items belonging to the Leaplines, said Graft.
The property owner opted to demolish the residence, resulting in the couple and their two children moving in with another family member in an already crowded home.
The afternoon activities, meanwhile, will include raffles and games and there will be refreshments available for purchase, said Graft.
A gift registry has also been established to aid the family. The website for the registry is www.walmart.com/giftregistry/gr_detail.do?registryId=80501172208. Formore information, visit the event website at www.ponygirlridesagain.weebly.com.