Fire and smoke damage was inflicted upon a home at 203 W. Boston St., Syracuse, on Wednesday morning, Dec. 13. The initial call reported flame on the structure’s second floor. (Photo by Keith Knepp)

SYRACUSE — Donations for the family of six who lost everything in a house fire Wednesday, Dec.13, on West Boston Street, Syracuse, can be dropped off at the new Syracuse Elementary School through Thursday, Dec. 21.

Although the community has responded generously, more needs to be done.

After that, those with items for the family can call or email Syracuse Elementary School Student Services Coordinator Cindy Brady and she will arrange to have someone at the school to pick up. Her cell phone is (574) 355-3671. Her email is [email protected].

Through the efforts of local representatives of the American Red Cross, the family has been housed at Brook Pointe Inn temporarily. Their stay will end Wednesday, Dec. 27, unless funds are donated. People can stop at Brook Pointe and pay for a longer stay for the family.

The family is in need of a short term home rental of about three months, while their home is repaired from the fire, smoke and water damage. If you have an available rental, please contact Brady.

Everything inside the home was lost. Household items such as bedding and small appliances, beds and furniture are needed as well as cleaning supplies. A small storage unit has been made available for the family to keep things in until they are back in their home.

Clothing would be appreciated for all six family members. Brady noted, “What isn’t used for this family, will be donated to other families in need through the school. Gently used clothing is always being sought. Please be sure it is clean.”

Sherry Lantz of the Kosciusko Chapter of the American Red Cross shared sizes of clothing needed. Boys sizes are 4T and 8-10. Men’s sizes are 29-30 and 33-34 for pants and 30-32 for shirts. Mom wears size 8-10 pants and large tops.
Shoe sizes are little boys 10, boys 3, men’s 9 and 13. Bedding and towels would also be appreciated. Lantz said gift cards might be a good idea also.

The new Syracuse Elementary School is located at 12799 N. Kern Road, behind Wawasee High School, and next door to Syracuse Eagles Aerie 3760.