Support Sarah Margaret and James after house fire

Dearest friends and family,

On the evening of April 27th, a fire started in Sarah Margaret and James’ kitchen while James was out running a quick errand. When he got home he was able to get their two dogs out of the house, but the fire spread through their house quickly and burned to the ground completely. Their sheep, chickens, dogs, and 2 cats survived; they are still searching for their third cat. The garage was untouched by the fire, but everything in the house is completely gone.

As you can imagine, this complete loss is devastating. Their home was over two hundred years old and uninsurable. In addition to having lost everything, Montana (their dog) is being treated for severe smoke inhalation and they have already spent $600 at the vet and they expect that she will need further treatment. The sheep are also presenting symptoms of smoke exposure and will likely need vet care. They have already quoted them a minimum of $18,000-$20,000 for the demolition and removal of the debris from their home. They were able to move their trucks out of the way, but James’ car has significant damage which isn’t covered by insurance.

We are organizing this Go Fund Me to help them get back on their feet as they recover from this overwhelming loss and go through rebuilding their lives and processing this unimaginable loss and trauma. Currently, the most helpful thing would be financial support as they work to secure housing for themselves and their pets and as they replace some of the most necessary things for their daily life.

We have received many offers for donations and we are so thankful to know how supported James and Sarah Margaret are. Right now, storage space for donations is very limited (no house or shelter on the property). At this time we are asking that people give money and also let us know (Lissa, Willow, and Shelley) what items they have that they can donate when the time is right. Then, we can reach back out to you and James and Sarah Margaret can know what is available. Things such as grubhub or doordash or gift cards to restaurants would be appreciated. Meal trains may be something we reach back out with, but they are currently staying with family, so for the most part meals are taken care of.

For everyone who has reached out with love, support, and concern - so many thanks. There is so much love in this community and we are so grateful to be surrounded by such a strong community.

Please share this fundraiser on social media and with friends who are able to help. Sarah Margaret and James are endlessly thankful for all of your support.

If you prefer to send money by check, you can make checks out to Sarah Margaret Hutchison and James McKinney. The mailing address is:

Shelley Wascom

524 Hialeah Dr

Knoxville, TN 37920