Community rallies for victims of fire
After a fire destroyed their home in the Sandtown community, Neshoba countians came out in force to support a family of four who lost everything last week.
“On behalf of our entire family, we want to thank everyone in Neshoba County and Philadelphia for the overwhelming support and kindness we have been shown. While we are heartbroken over the loss of our home, we have seen God’s goodness like never before,” a statement from the family signed by Matt, Mary Ann, Brayden, and Knox Nicholson said.
They lost almost everything they owned in the house fire reported on April 8 at 8:49 p.m. at their home on Road 610 just west of the intersection with Road 743, according to Emergency Management Director Josh Burt.
Neshoba County Sheriff Eric Clark said personnel with the North Bend Volunteer Fire Department were on scene within 10 minutes of the 911 call and said other volunteer departments and first responders were on scene shortly after that.
“The initial call said the house is on fire but no one is inside,” Clark said.
Clark said emergency personnel cleared the scene at about 11:45 p.m.
Burt said no injuries were reported.
A GoFundMe account set up by friends of the family had raised 85 percent of their goal as of Tuesday.
The evening after the fire, a group of students volunteered to pump gas and make pizzas at Bobby’s Country Store. They raised $3,200 in just three hours.
“What a group of kids,” Bobby’s Country Store posted on social media. “What a night! What a wonderful community we live in!”
Bobby’s Country Store also set up a drop-off spot for donations for the family.
Friday there was a a BBQ lunch fundraiser held at the Philadelphia Country Club. The fundraiser also had a second location in Newton.
“How blessed are we to live in a place where people come together and support one another in some of the most difficult and trying times,” the family’s statement said.
“From our neighbors, friends, family, churches, businesses, and work family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are forever grateful and will always remember the love we have been shown. May God bless each of you.”
To support the Nicholson family, go to https://gofund.me/6c27839b