Stratford Family Loses Home In ‘Devastating’ Fire, Community Rallies

STRATFORD, CT — The community is rallying around a family that was displaced from their home after a “devastating” fire last week in Stratford.

More than 20 firefighters responded to the fire Feb. 12 at 60-62 Park Street in Stratford. Crews extinguished the fire in about 30 minutes, according to officials.

Officials said four adults and one child were displaced by the fire, and the home was “not habitable.”

Kelsey McGarvey said her family experienced an “unimaginable tragedy as our home was engulfed in flames due to a devastating house fire,” according to a GoFundMe campaign that was launched to help the family with expenses.

“As a single mom, the weight of this loss feels even heavier, knowing that I must now navigate the challenges of rebuilding our lives for my 7-year-old son and myself,” McGarvey wrote on the GoFundMe page. “Alongside us, another adult one of my best friends, who lived here shares in the devastation and the daunting task of starting over from scratch. Despite the destruction, we are immensely grateful that no one was hurt. Our cherished memories, belongings, and sense of security have been shattered in an instant.

“We're reaching out to our community for support during this difficult time. Your generosity can help us find new housing, replace essential belongings, and begin the journey towards restoring normalcy. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a profound difference as we navigate this challenging journey of recovery. Thank you for your kindness and compassion during this trying time.”

Nearly $9,300 has been raised within the first seven days of the GoFundMe campaign (as of Tuesday night).

For more information, or to make a donation, visit the GoFundMe page here.