Homeless In The Hamptons, Friends Rally To Help

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — The Westhampton Beach community is rallying to help a family left homeless.

A GoFundMe page, "Bob, Homeless With A Heart," was created by Brian and Dawn Murphy.

"Our dear friend Bob was evicted from his home while he was at work a few days ago," the page said, adding that Bob and his family's possessions were stolen from the street after the eviction.

"My friend Bob was left with the clothes on his back, a daughter who had one day before the eviction been released from the hospital, a wife, a son, three dogs and a bird. All on the sidewalk in 30 degree weather with nowhere to go," the Murphys said.

Bob, the page said, is currently staying in an $89 a night hotel, with enough funds for just a few more nights.

"We have helped financially to get them into a temporary hotel, but, unfortunately, we are 'tapped out' and needs others to please help," the page's creators said. "We met Bob 10 years ago when he painted our house and for many years he has worked as a handyman for us. He has become part of the fabric of our life and has helped us in so many ways."

The goal, the Murphys said, is to get Bob's family settled in a safe and affordable place and also, to help them get more adequately set up for success.

"Bob is a painter and custodian and has a very strong work ethic," the page says; his wife is working at a Riverhead store and their daughter has medical issues. "Bob's work is sporadic, particularly in the harsh winter. He relies on others for transportation. He lost his license with unpaid traffic tickets, and he has no car to get to a workplace. He has tried to get the ticket fees waived to no avail."

Bob, his friends said, has a kind heart.

"He is always gentle, positive, ready to work and takes things in stride," the Murphys said. "His present situation has shaken him to the core. They have no money to be able to really pay for anything," including rental deposits or clothing.

The hope is to find Bob and his family a safe, affordable home, to help him with his parking tickets, to get a driver's license again, and to secure a car and insurance. His friends also hope to reach out for social services.

"We would appreciate any support you can give," they said.

To donate, click here.

Photo courtesy GoFundMe.