Earlier this year, North Carolina State Representative Dean Arp and his wife Anne were driving along U.S. 1 in Richmond County when they saw smoke coming from a mobile home. They stopped and rescued wheelchair-bound 77-year-old Esther Jones from the burning structure. Photos from the scene show Arp with Jones amid the charred remains of her home, and the story of the rescue drew widespread public attention.
Following the fire, Jones' family launched a fundraiser that collected over $37-thousand to help her rebuild, with a $5-thousand donation from Arp himself. Additional support came from the North Carolina Manufacturing Modular Home Association and CAVCO, a modular home builder, who partnered to provide Jones with a brand-new home. Arp credits the generosity of the community, saying the effort to rebuild was led by fellow North Carolinians.
Beyond the major donations, lots of smaller donations came in from individuals who quietly contributed to make sure Jones had everything she needed to start fresh. Donors provided furniture, appliances, and even built a wheelchair ramp for her new home. Arp praised the spirit of Richmond County residents and others who came together, calling it a reaffirmation of community values and a great example of neighbors helping neighbors.
Source: WRAL
photo: GETTY
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