By Martha B. Jacob –
It’s been a very difficult few weeks for one young Ripley family, and their community is hoping to offer a little help to the family.
On July 21, Matt and Abby Bradford lost everything they had to a house fire.
Both Matt and Abby are members of the Ripley Life Squad and Matt is also a member of the Ripley Fire Department.
“On Friday, August 19, beginning at 7 p.m., friends and family members will hold a very special benefit for the Bradford family at the Ripley Legion Hall,” said Brian Dutlinger, assistant chief of the EMS. “This is wonderful family with six children, four of which are still living at home. They are facing real challenges right now, and with school just around the corner, they have an extra burden of buying clothes and school supplies for their kids.”
The family is currently living with a relative while they decide what to do.
The benefit will include a raffle with donated prizes and a split-the-pot. For only $10, participants at the benefit will enjoy a great dinner consisting of pulled pork with barbeque, chips, green beans, desserts and lemonade or tea to drink.
“Proceeds from this benefit will be used for everyday expenses and to help replace all the things they lost in the fire,” Dutlinger said. “The couple’s four children include Harper, who is 2, Hunter is 3, Grayson is 7 and Abby is 10.”
The Ripley Legion Hall is located at 2944 Elk River Road in Ripley.
For anyone who can’t make it to the benefit Aug. 19, a Matt and Abby Bradford bank account has been set up in their name at First State Bank. For more information or to make a donation please contact Tiffany Regenstein at (937) 515-0097. The family also has a facebook page under their names.
Donations are still being accepted for the raffle, and all contributions would be greatly appreciated.