Community rallies around couple after devastating house fire

NEW MADRID, Mo., (KBSI) — A local couple who lost their home in a fire last week has received an outpouring of support from their community, with more than $10,000 raised to help them recover.

Jim and Debbie, both retired school teachers, lost their home on Jan. 15. Debbie was en route to pick up Jim from the hospital after his knee surgery when the fire broke out.

The couple dedicated over 30 years to education and Jim continued to serve his community as an EMT and firefighter.

A GoFundMe campaign set up to support the couple describes them as “the type of people who would give you the shirt off their backs” and notes that their kindness and generosity have touched many lives.

The community’s response has been overwhelming, with donations pouring in to help the couple rebuild.