Kaity Newell Fire Recovery Fund

Kaity Newell's house burned down today-early in the morning of June 27, 2020. Kaity, her dogs, cats and chickens are safe.  After she put the kettle on at 5 AM, Kaity noticed smoke, realized the basement was on fire and escaped barefoot with just her phone, car keys, dogs and the clothes on her back. The only things salvaged from the house by the firemen were her violin and trumpet, both in scorched, soaked cases. All her other instruments including her banjo, guitar and piano were lost. She has an enormous amount of work to do to rebuild her family farm house and music studio.  

We hope to raise enough to help with rent and other living expenses, and enable her to keep her farm and gardens thriving until she can rebuild.  Possible needs include a caravan or small camper so she can continue to live on her land during construction as well as temporary studio space for violin students. The chicken coop needs to be rebuilt in a new location so that the burnt house structure can be demolished.

Kaity has given so much of her time and talent playing music and teaching at schools and camps throughout midcoast Maine. She has inspired generations of children to reach for the music, patiently sharing her love of the violin and vast repertoire of traditional New England and British folk tunes and dances.

This event has been quite a shock and there will be emotional and financial costs for a while. Kaity could use whatever help you can provide.  We are grateful for any donations.