A community fundraiser has quickly gained traction after a devastating house fire destroyed a Town of Waterloo home earlier this week, leaving a local family with nothing.
A GoFundMe campaign organized by Bethann Linehan has raised more than $35,000—about 71% of its $50,000 goal—as of Friday, drawing support from roughly 300 donors in just two days.
The fundraiser supports the Skinner family—David, Alissha, Alexis, and Haylee—whose home and belongings were lost in the April 8 fire on State Route 96. Organizers said the family lost “everything they owned” in a matter of hours, including personal belongings and irreplaceable memories.
The family’s dog, Susie, remains missing following the fire, though loved ones say they are holding out hope the pet may have escaped.
According to the campaign description, funds will be used to replace essential items such as clothing and basic supplies while helping the family begin the long process of rebuilding. Organizers also described the Skinners as a family known for helping others in the community, noting the outpouring of support reflects that reputation.
Top donations have reached $1,000, with several others contributing hundreds of dollars within hours of the campaign’s launch.
The fire, reported around 8:36 p.m. Wednesday, fully engulfed the residence by the time first responders arrived. Authorities confirmed no injuries, but the structure was deemed a total loss. The cause remains under investigation by the New York State Fire Investigation Team.
The fundraiser remains active online as community members continue efforts to support the family in the aftermath of the fire.
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