“IT’S a Christmas miracle” – those were the words of a family who received innumerable donations from the community after a fire broke out inside their home.
Kind-hearted people acted quickly after the blaze swept through the Kineton Close property in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
It destroyed everything in its path, leaving mum Tara and her two sons, one aged 19 and the other 6, with nothing left.
Luckily they managed to escape and were treated for smoke inhalation by West Midlands Ambulance Service.
Tara’s daughter Carlie, who lives elsewhere, said: “We will never be able to thank the people of Redditch enough for what they’ve done for us.
“They have restored our faith in humanity.
“We have received everything you could think of and everything you wouldn’t think of too.”
The family, who have moved into a temporary flat, have been offered furniture, televisions, Christmas trees, presents, underwear, toothbrushes and have even received calls from local businesses offering to decorate their future home.
Carlie added that her family have received hundreds of messages of love and support, which in many ways ‘means far more’.
“People’s kinds words can do so much for your own mental health, it helps keep you going.
“Even though we will never be able to do it, we want to try and repay everyone in Redditch for the generosity they have shown.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
The family say they plan to hold a charity event next year as a way of giving back.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Watch Commander Matt Dormer, who attended the fire, said: “I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to fit smoke alarms and make sure they’re working.
“It’s become a bit of a cliche now but they really do save lives.
“The occupants were really, really lucky,” added Mr Dormer, who, as Councillor Dormer, is the Leader of Redditch Borough Council.
The blaze was extinguished by hose reel jet and two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus.
A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help the family get back on their feet which you can visit HERE.
