Thousands Raised For Firefighter Who Lost House In Blaze

PORT WASHINGTON, NY—After a fire destroyed a firefighter and his family's Port Washington home on Christmas, the community has come to the rescue in a big way, giving back to a man who's already given back to so many over the years.

"When I think about my uncle, I think about a selfless man who takes care of everyone before himself," Jackie Marie said on the popular crowdfunding website, GoFundMe. "He has left an indelible mark on the Port Washington community as a firefighter and local business owner. He protected New York City as a police officer in the 108th precinct."

The damaged home belonged to John Lewis, a 43-year member of the Port Washington Department's protection engine company. Lewis and his sons are the third and fourth generations of their family to live in the home.

After the fire damaged much of the house, the Police Department Patrolman’s Benevolent Association, along with members of the Port Washington Fire Department, began raising money for Lewis and his family.

A GoFundMe account was also set up for the family. To date, the account has raised over $15,000-which surpassed the account's goal of just $5,000.

According to Lewis, he's been overwhelmed by the community's support.

“From the bottom of my blackened, crusty, old heart, I want to thank everybody who donated, whether it be money or clothes or their time just to text or call me," Lewis said on GoFundMe. "The outpouring of support and love blows me away! And I would like to thank all the people who wrote such wonderful things about me and edited out the bad parts. LOL. Thanks guys."