ROANOKE, Va. – 14 people, including 10 children, have been displaced following a fire in Southwest Roanoke on Saturday night, Roanoke Fire-EMS said.
Roanoke Fire-EMS said they responded to reports of a structure fire on 22nd Street around 8:55 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the residence. Crews stated they had the fire under control by 9:55 p.m.
Authorities said that while no injuries were reported, a family was displaced due to the fire. The Red Cross is currently assisting them in their time of need.
The community is also responding with an outpouring of support.
Famous Anthony’s in Vinton is collecting donations for the family, which includes one of their employees.
“I couldn’t imagine,” said Michael Hall, general manager at the location. “I have a family of my own, so I just couldn’t imagine, it being this close to Christmas and something like that happening.”
The James Madison Middle School PTA also launched a donation drive for the family and shared these sizes for clothing:
“Children Sizes:
1. Medium in men’s / shoe 11
2. Small in mens / shoe 10
3. XS in women’s / shoe 6.5
4. Small in men’s / shoe 9.5
5. 14/16 in girls / shoe 7.5
6. 14/16 in girls / shoe 5.5
7. 14/16 in boys / shoe 9
8. medium in women’s / shoe 9
9. 12 in boys / shoe 3
10. 4/5 toddler / shoe 9/10 toddler
Adult sizes:
1. mens size large
2. mens size x-large
3. mens size x-large
4. womens small - 12 kids pants"
Hall said people have already responded in a big way.
“We’ve all been trying to come together as a store, as a company, as a community trying to get her back on her feet and her family,” he said.
A GoFundMe campaign has also exceeded its initial $5,000 goal.
A cause has not been determined at this time.