How to Help the Victims of Monday's Devastating Fire in Upper Providence

The holidays did not go quite as planned for one local family. The Reitinger family lost their Upper Providence home and both cars in a destructive blaze Monday afternoon.

However, from the ashes of the fire's devastation, the community has banded together to help the Reitingers get back on their feet.

In the less than 24 hours since the blaze, more than $14,000 has already been raised to help the couple and their four children.

"As a friend I feel helpless for them and would like to help them in anyway possible," wrote family friend Heather Hopkins Davidson. "So many people have asked how they can be of assistance. If there is anyway at all you can help them get through the next few hours, days or weeks with a donation--please do."

As of Tuesday afternoon, a total of 191 people has raised $14,235 in just 15 hours.

The fire began at about 3:54 p.m. on the first block of Marchwood Drive.

The fire started in the garage before quickly spreading throughout the home, authorities said.

While the Reitingers were all evacuated and were not injured, their garage, home and two cars were destroyed.

The fire was placed under control in about an hour. Units were cleared from the scene by about 6 p.m.
It's not yet clear what caused the fire, and it remains under investigation.

To learn more about the fundraiser or to donate, see here.

Image via GoFundMe