Community Rallies Around Braintree Family Who Loses Home In Fire

BRAINTREE, MA — The community has rallied around a Braintree family who lost their home in a fire on Christmas morning.

Richard and Lynda Mitchell, long time residents of Braintree, were displaced after the three-alarm fire ravaged their home on Pleasant View Avenue. But residents have come to their aid and raised more than $21,000 in a GoFundMe campaign.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the campaign, organized by Angela Derochers, raised $21,305 and was able to up its goal from $20,000 to $25,000.

"On Christmas Day when we heard what was happening at the Mitchell's home, we were devastated and felt as helpless as I'm sure they did," Derochers wrote on the GoFundMe page. "We knew we had to do something to help this wonderful, giving, sweet family somehow. We never anticipated how many good people would feel how we did and want to help as much as we did. We are so grateful and thankful for neighbors, community, family, friends, and every good person who has reached out during this difficult time!"

Anyone who wishes to pitch in and help the Mitchells can donate at the GoFundMe page.