JERSEY SHORE -- Friends and complete strangers are hoping to spread at least a little holiday cheer to a family who lost everything in a fire at their home Monday in Lycoming County.
Tuesday, Newswatch 16 spoke with the family from Jersey Shore.
This would have been the Sullivan family`s second Christmas in their new home in Jersey Shore, but that home was destroyed by fire Monday.
While some secret Santas are donating money to the family, the Sullivans are just grateful they can spend the holiday together.
Dustin Sullivan better known as Bud stood out in front of his home with family and neighbors just one day after his home in Jersey Shore caught fire.
“I got here as fast as I could and the house was already in flames,” said Dustin Sullivan.
His wife and sister-in-law were home when the fire started. Everyone got out safely.
Now, the siding to his neighbor’s house is melted. Most of his belongings are waterlogged.
“A mess. Everything on the top two floors is pretty much gone,” said Chad Guiswite.
Sullivan, his wife, two children and sister in law moved in to the home almost a year ago.
“Two boys 10 and 13. At this point we don`t really know what we are going to do,” said Sullivan.
The Sullivans got back from a holiday vacation in the Bahamas last week. This would have been the family`s second Christmas in their new home.
“The Red Cross put us up in hotel and we`ll make do and have Christmas there,” said Sullivan.
Less than 24 hours since the fire happened and an online GoFundMe account set up by the family`s nephew has already raised $1,700.
Other family members and friends are also coming together to help the family out.
“People are bringing presents and clothing to the hotel where they are staying at, so they can have something for Christmas. I think that`s pretty awesome,” said Guiswite.
“Anonymous people are donating which is very very thoughtful. I mean we appreciate it very very much,” said Sullivan.
Sullivan`s nephew, Chad Guiswite has also set up the Dustin and Lanelle Sullivan fire fund for the family at Citizens and Northern Bank Branches.
“They would help anyone else out if needed,” said Guiswite.
“We`re all safe so that`s what matters,” said Sullivan.
A state police fire marshal says it was an electrical fire.
The family hopes to rebuild.
People looking to help can go to any Citizen's Northern Bank and donate under the account, Dustin and Lanelle Sullivan Fire Fund.
