Students reach out to fire victims

MIAMISBURG, Ohio (WDTN) - Students at a Miamisburg elementary school were lending a helping hand to a family that lost everything in a fire.

It was a tough lesson for second graders to learn, after finding out one of their classmates had lost her home. After hearing about the students at Jane Chance Elementary decided to step up to help.

Flames destroyed the home of single mother, Jenny Allen and her two young children on August 23rd. The home was located off Branch Lane in Miamisburg.

The family rushed out of the burning home with nothing but the clothes on their back, but Allen said she felt blessed.

"We still have each other at the end of every night. Whether we're in a hotel or a strange apartment. Its still the three of us," said Allen.

Miraculously the family cat they thought was trapped inside, also survived.

"I was thrilled, and broke out into tears. He was soaking wet and filthy, and he was meowing," said Allen.

Sarah Pelphrey, the 2nd grade teacher at Jane Chance Elementary said it was tough to see one of her kids going through such a tough time.

"Its just totally a tragedy. I can't imagine my family being touched in that way," said Pelphrey.

As soon as she informed her students about the fire, and everything their friend had lost, Pelphrey said the 2nd graders were extremely concerned, and they wanted to do more than just make sympathy cards.

"The next morning there were bags and bags of clothes, and shoes from the students. They had gone into their own closets and decided they wanted to bring Caleigh clothes, and shoes, and the things that she needed," said Pelphrey.

Allen said she was touched by the support.

"It's been absolutely humbling. I never would have imagined the amount of community support thats come out."

The American Red Cross helped the family get into a new apartment, but they were in need of basic furniture and household items.

You can log onto www.allenfamilyfire.com if you would like to help.