Penny Campbell and her two daughters are living examples of the spirit of Christmas.
“We wanted to give some money to support this family and make sure they have a Merry Christmas,” she said.
All nine people in the Sumpter family, including six children under 10, were not expecting a Merry Christmas. They lost almost everything Tuesday when their home burned to the ground. By Wednesday the generosity was shining strong.
“We have so much in our family,” said Kip Lewis. “I felt like it was an opportunity for us to reach out and give back.”
“It feels good for you to really help someone out,” said 13 year old Dean Lewis.
All day complete strangers arrived with gifts.
“I brought gifts for the all the kids and some warm coats,” said Nancy Moore.
Operation Blue Santa rolled up with APD, AFD and the National Guard delivering food, toys and clothes. The Austin Firefighters Outreach presented the Sumpter's with a thousand dollars. It's enough to bring tears of joys.
“I'm overjoyed,” said Chimere Sumpter.“I'm speechless.”
“It's unbelievable,” said Leroy Sumpter. “I never expected in a million years the outpouring of support and love.”
What happened to the Sumpter’s is heartbreaking but they are not the only family to lose everything in a fire.
“Wednesday we had two more fires,” said Diane Ventresca with the Red Cross Central Texas. “In fact in December alone, we’ve had 18 families displaced by fires.
Since December 1st, the Chapter has seen a total of 39 children have their holidays spoiled by fire. The agency relies on the generosity of neighbors and only has $1000 left in its December disaster budget.
“The holidays are fire season and we expect an increase in the need for our services, said Ventresca. “This year it has been especially worrisome. Our budget has taken something of a hit from the economy and the number of people who need assistance is on the rise.”
But in the days before Christmas the Sumpter's are more than grateful for the love and support of Austin.
“I was told if I didn't love Austin before, I would love it now they were correct,” said Sumpter.
If you would like to help other families who have lost everything in a fire you can call the Red Cross at 512 928-4271 or visit www.centex.redcross.org.
