Fundraiser set to help family
(Courtesy photo) The Moon family home before it was destroyed in a propane fire on Jan. 9.
(Courtesy photo) The Moon family home after it was destroyed in a propane fire on Jan. 9.
(Courtesy photo) Four of the Moon children pictured in a recent photo.
(Courtesy photo) Three of the family's four dogs are pictured in this recent photo. All four, and one of the family's three cats, survived the fire.
SANDPOINT — Neighbors help neighbors. It’s as simple as that, really.
After friends and family heard about the devastating fire which destroyed the home of Josh and Rebecca Moon, they’ve rallied around the young family. Now a Saturday fundraiser is planned to help get the family back on their feet.
The fundraiser is planned for Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Ponderay Events Center, 401 Bonner Mall Way, Ponderay. There will be vendors with jewelry, hand-crafted woodwork, skincare, clothing, tupperware and more. There will also be 50/50 raffle and a silent auction, with a myriad of items donated by local businesses.
The family, who lived 10 miles up Upper Pack River Road, lost everything they owned when a propane explosion took place inside their home about 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 9.
The family, which includes five children between the ages of 4-16, lost everything they owned. The family’s four dogs and one of their three cats also survived the fire.
“Josh later recounted how it took at least 30 minutes to round up the five children and four dogs, as they ran terrified, into the woods, from the burning house,” said Stephanie Mozel, who is helping organize the fundraiser. “Everyone was in their pajamas, and barefoot out in the snow.”
The keys to the family’s vehicles were burned in the house, as were all but one cellphone, belonging to the eldest daughter, which they used to call for help.
Unfortunately, the family had no insurance to cover the loss of their home and belongings, Mozel said.
The community has rallied around the family since the fire, helping them get back on their feet. The fundraiser is another step in that effort, she said.
Among those donating to the silent auction are Ward Tollbom, Image Maker, Custom Cabin Creations, Eve’s Leaves, North Idaho Woodworking, Wrenco Arms, Pooch Parlor, Sa’Haira Salon, Joe’s Philly Cheesesteak, Bristles & Combs, Great Stuff, Panhandle Cone & Coffee, Bella Terra Boutique, Zany Zebra, Creations at Cedar St. Bridge, Samuels Store & Blue Heron Cafe, Lakeside Coffee, and Solstice Wellness Spa.