They've lost everything

$6,145 of $15,000 goal
Given by 74 generous donors in around 3 months

Toni and her family lost everything in a fire.

Whangarei, Northland

‘My garage is on fire, I've lost everything.’

That call at 5am on January 13th, 2024 was devastating. One of my closest friends- grieving the loss of her life's belongings.

Toni had been preparing to move when her garage caught fire. She had spent her summer packing her life into boxes, and strategically stacking them in the garage. That garage was already full to the brim with expensive riding gear, camping gear and bikes- now reduced to a pile of ashes after a suspected electrical fire burnt the building to the ground.

Domestic violence, health issues and severe PTSD have nothing on this woman, but this may have been the final straw.

‘I think my life is cursed,’ were her next words.

Let's restore Toni's faith in humanity. A single mother to two children, Toni gives her all to the community. Her involvement with a number of boards, volunteer organisations and sporting teams is phenomenal. A.trained vet, she also selflessly dedicates her time to helping animals happily spends sleepless nights caring for them.

This woman saves lives, now it is our turn to save her. Toni and her kids have lost thousands. They had no insurance. No amount of money will bring back the childhood memories and family heirlooms that were lost, but it can help to get the family back on their feet.

Phillippa Newman's involvement (page creator)

I'm a very close friend.

Use of funds

I'm starting this page to raise money for replacement items, as well as to help the family get into their new rental. Please donate as much or as little as you can, everything helps. Let's show this family what community is about. Due to documents being lost in the fire, funds will now be released to me in the first instance and then transferred to Toni as requested by Toni.

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Latest update

Life is looking up!  26 February 2024

Hi guys,

Sorry we've been a bit quiet! Toni has officially moved into her new house. Your generous donations have helped so much towards moving costs, and helping to replace some of the essentials lost in the fire. Toni, the kids and even the animals are finally in a safe place and the relief is visible, it's incredible. That is all thanks to you guys!

The only thing left is to clean up the destruction left at the old house. Is there anyone available to help do an end of tenancy clean over the next few days? A fresh start for the family is so awesome, and this is one way too truly get rid of the wreckage of the past 😍

Thank you all so, so much!

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Latest donations

Phoebe
Phoebe on 26 Mar 2024
Ka aroha e hoa xx
$25
Carol
Carol on 23 Jan 2024
$300
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 22 Jan 2024
Hello, saw your story on Stuff. Our heart goes out to you. 3 years ago we lost everything in a house fire. We understand the pain and also the healing journey you are on. Be kind to yourselves, cry, scream, laugh and find joy in the simple things. The sun will rise and again, and like a phoenix - so will you all.
$20
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 21 Jan 2024
I'm so sorry to read of your loss. Sending positive and healing vibes to you and your family
$20
Hayley
Hayley on 21 Jan 2024
$5

Who's involved?

Phillippa Newman's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Phillippa Newman
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This campaign started on 13 Jan 2024 and ended on 13 Apr 2024.