The recent home explosion in the city of Washington has inspired an outpouring of community support for those who were affected by the tragic event.

The home explosion occurred on January 4th, resulting in two people injured with one of them, 68-year-old George Carpenter, dying as a result on January 7th. Soon after the explosion two local residents Renee Guy and Kelley Thomas began asking the public for any donations to help the young boy that was involved, which has led to a rally of support from gift cards and monetary donations to clothing and other items for the boy. The YMCA of Washington County has also assisted in gathering donations, as the boy has meant a great deal to the organization for years. Guy shares how the boy has responded to the community’s help, “I got to see him yesterday and he’s just got a smile on his face all of the time and he was just acting like a 12-year-old boy and that is exactly what we want. We want him to have that natural reaction and he’s got a lot of healing coming his way. He’s got a lot of, not just physical, but emotional. He’s got a lot that he’s gone through and he’s done this all his life but his attitude is beyond belief.”

Washington Middle School Principal Curt Mayer mentions that the students and staff have also rallied around the boy, raising over $1,100 last week in hat and jeans day fundraisers as well as collecting gift cards, clothes, and other items through their Kindness Kloset. Several teachers also banded together to give him a new electric guitar and other equipment. Mayer says they have been so blessed with all of the donations. The Washington Pizza Hut is also holding a fundraiser tomorrow with 20% of the day’s total sales going toward the survivor and his family, along with a $250 matching gift. If you would like to give a direct donation, contact Angie Goodwin at agoodwin@washingtony.org.