Neighbourhood rallies around local family

A LOCAL family that lost their home to a house fire is rebuilding after the disaster with the support of their Wardrop Valley community outside Murwillumbah.

On Tuesday, September 10, Solitaire and Laurie Smith, along with their two children aged two and six months, lost the family home. No one was injured in the blaze, but the family are now rebuilding their home and life from scratch.

Family friend Ally Strain set up a GoFundMe page originally aiming for $10,000. In her plea to the community for support, Ms Strain said the couple were the kindest, most loving and giving people.

“Their house wasn’t just a house, but a home and not just for their family, but for anyone who visited,” she said.

“Their beautiful babies were born in the lounge room. There have been so many laughs, wonderful conversations and good times in this home with so many incredible memories made.”

The couple are described as very environmentally conscious and community-minded, shop locally, give back as much as possible, and have future plans for their property to help the environment and wider community.

“They’re fortunate to have building insurance but not contents insurance, and they will have to buy everything from a washing machine, beds, to pots and pans and everything in between,” Ms Strain said.

“Sol and Laurie aren’t the kind to ask for help but are always willing to give it. Right now, they really need it.

“I know there are so many people who will want to help them, and donating money will help ease the financial stress of their future.”

The fundraising page was overwhelmed with support and reached $16,879 at the time of writing towards the updated goal of $20,000.

If you can support the family in rebuilding, all donations big or small are welcome at gofundme.com/f/help-sol-lauries-family-rebuild-their-lives