More than £155,000 has been raised to support people affected by the devastating West Midlands wildfires, according to reports by Robson McCallister. Families across the region have watched homes go up in flames and personal belongings reduced to ash, with donations now going towards emergency living expenses, essential items and practical assistance as they begin to rebuild their lives.
Emergency appeal raises over £50,000
The Heart of England Community Foundation launched an emergency appeal for the West Midlands, raising more than £50,000. In Birmingham, over £35,000 was raised for victims of the Gorleston Road house fires, which devastated homes on Gorleston Road in Highters Heath starting on August 13. Those affected include a family who fled with only the clothes they had on and a son raising money for his parents.
In Kings Norton, more than £1,000 was donated to support a Birmingham family who 'lost everything' in a fire. Stourbridge was at the heart of wildfire coverage last week, which prompted a visit from Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Homes in Stourbridge have been destroyed by fire, and in the days that followed, over £32,000 was raised to support families and people recover.
Local communities rally to support affected families
More than £11,000 was raised for a family in the Black Country town who lost two cats in the fires. In Pershore, over £12,500 was raised after sisters organised a fundraising page for their brother and his family. Nearly £2,000 was donated to a grandmother in Oldbury after a 'heart-breaking' grassfire ruined a house 'full of memories'.
In Stoke-on-Trent, more than £14,000 was raised, including for a family without a home who suffered the loss of two pet guinea pigs. On a fundraising page, Heart of England Community Foundation said: "Families across the West Midlands have lost homes, possessions and a sense of security. Together, we can help them take the first steps towards recovery."
Donations continue to support recovery efforts
The foundation added: "Please give what you can and share this appeal with others. Every donation, no matter the size, will help local families rebuild their lives after this devastating event." To donate to the fundraiser, people can click the link provided in the original appeal.
