ALEX - On the evening of April 17, fire destroyed the home of Terry Helm of Alex. Helm and five of her 10 children were living in the home at the time.

Fortunately, the family was away when the fire, which started in one of the children’s bedrooms, raged through the house, burning it to the ground.

“There was nothing left when we came home,” said Helm.

Although the family does have insurance, the process is slow and the family is in immediate need of essentials of daily life.

Immediately after the fire, the family stayed with friends in Blanchard, but has recently returned to their home of 21 years, where they plan to rebuild.

A detached garage, which was not damaged by the fire, is now in use as a makeshift bedroom and bathroom and the family is living in a small travel trailer provided with the help of the family’s church congregation at the Southern Baptist Chapel in downtown Alex.

Donations are being accepted at the church and many items are needed, including bedding and towels and other household items, as well as clothes for the entire family.

The three boys wear sizes 12 to 14, 30x32 jeans and medium shirts, while the girls wear size 10 to 12, 5 to 7 jeans and small and medium shirts. The mother wears size 3 to 5 jeans and medium shirts.

The Southern Baptist Chapel is located at 304 N. Main in Alex and their telephone number is 405-785-2281. All donations are greatly appreciated.