Fire-hit Sunderland care home boss 'overwhelmed' by kindness as fundraiser hits £6,600
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Kathryn Hudson has said her team is “completely devastated" by the fire, which broke out in the roof void of the Croft Care Home in Ettrick Grove in Barnes just after 10.30am on Friday, June 26.
Six people, including two residents, were taken to hospital, while eight of the 27 residents evacuated were rescued by firefighters, with 43 officers at scene as the fire raged at its height.
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Hide AdAn investigation into the cause is ongoing by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, which was supported during the incident by the North East Ambulance Service, Northumbria Police and Salvation Army.
In the wake of the fire, which left a section of the building structurally damaged, a fundraiser was launched, initially to buy essential items as residents they were taken to another home to be looked after.
The businesswoman, who also runs the Food Porn North East blog, arranged for Delicious Dinners in Pennywell to drop off Sunday lunch for the residents and four staff.
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Hide AdKathryn said: “We are completely devastated with the loss of our home.
“The staff remained calm throughout a terrifying situation and followed our evacuation procedures which resulted in no casualties or serious injuries.
“This would not have been possible without the support from the emergency services, my colleagues and staff.
“I would personally like to thank the local community for their amazing donations of food, toiletries and clothing.
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Hide Ad“I would particularly like to thank Jolene Casey for the significant amount of money she has raised, this will make a huge difference for the residents.
“We hope to have their home restored as soon as possible.
“The support and kind words from everyone has made a devastating event more bearable.”
Deputy manager Ashley McHugh added: “I would just like to say how overwhelmed and amazed by the love and support that has been shown by the community in helping support our staff and residents in this hugely stressful time.
“Jolene Casey has done absolutely amazingly well at supporting and bringing a community together, so thank you, we are forever grateful.
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Hide Ad“I don’t think people realise the effect this has had for the staff who were on shift at the time and the aftermath.
“Feelings are high, we have lost our whole life and family - but we will be back.”
Jolene added: “I’ve been blown away by the community, I’ve been crying my eyes out, and it’s the fact that people have said they are skint but have still made that donation.
“We’ve had one businesswoman in the town give £500 and then a mam-of-three giving £5 out of her purse and we’re just grateful for every penny.”
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Hide AdDonations can be made via https://www.gofundme.com/f/21upy1uc00.