Fire victim accepts donations

Buechler Farms led an effort to collect donations for a woman displaced by an apartment fire last month. Lainie Low (above right) this month accepted $2,600 as well as clothes, gift cards, food and health and beauty items. Buechler Farms co-owner Irene Buechler (left) presented the money and items, and was going to pick up more things at Village Hall, one of the drop-off locations, this week. The farm will be giving Low and her family a horse and wagon ride. The biggest two donors were Mel’s Charities and RMR Spindle Repair, which each gave $500. Low is living with her son in Belgium until she can find another apartment. The fire was caused by a candle that was accidentally knocked over. Belgium Fire Department extinguished the fire at 160 Main St. the afternoon of Dec. 23 with the help of a FireTKO Fire Suppression Tool that knocked down the flames and reduced the temperature. It was the first time the department used the tool. First Assistant Fire Chief Pat Wester said damage would have been more substantial without the FST. Photo courtesy of Irene Buechler