Cromer family who lost everything say they’re overwhelmed with community generosity

The family that lost everything in a fire that tore through their Cromer home on the weekend say they have been overwhelmed by community support.

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The  family that lost everything in a fire that tore through their Cromer home on the weekend say they have been overwhelmed by community support.

A gofundme page set up for the family by a friend has now reached $35,000.

And peninsula residents have offered food, accommodation and other essentials through a facebook page, “Help the Hollands”.

Amanda Holland, whose two sons Jack and Kai miraculously escaped the fire, said she was blown away by the generosity.

“Losing the house was devastating, and the fact that our boys are alive is a miracle, but the thing that makes me cry the most is people’s generosity,” she said.

Kai's bedroom. Picture: Martin Lange.

“It’s humbling, it’s amazing and our community just thrives on this spirit.”

Ms Holland’s two sons Jack, 15, and Kai, 12, and their grandmother were at home when the blaze broke out.

Jack heroically saved his little brother from the fire – which rescue crews said had the potential to be fatal.

Even sporting identities have got behind the family. Manly Sea Eagles captain Jamie Lyon was so touched by the story he read in the Manly Daily that he is working with the club to offer the family assistance.

Close family friend Karen Downman said she wanted to thank all the people who had helped.

The Holland family are staying at a house but will be in need of a new place by Thursday. A number of local real-estate agents have offered their assistance.

It is understood the fire started in the garage. It has been deemed not suspicious.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

GO FUND ME

www.gofundme.com/ednj8wp5

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/helpthehollands