A fundraising campaign is underway to raise money to help the family of a local police chief and his family displaced by the March 14 tornado.
Lakeview residents Terry Brentlinger and his family faced a significant setback when their home was destroyed by the tornado, but a local Go Fund Me campaign is helping to ease the burden.
Mr. Brentlinger, who serves as the Police Chief for the village of DeGraff and his wife Ashley, an employee of Indian Lake Elementary School, are left to deal with the aftermath alongside their three daughters: Madison, Ayla, and Julianna.
However, as the Indian Lake community has demonstrated time and again since the natural disaster, those struggling are not alone.
The Brentlingers are estimated to be displaced for the next eight to 12 months, according to the Go Fund Me. Since the storm, they’ve been staying with friends, and this act of kindness has provided solace to the family during this tumultuous period.
Just as Mr. and Mrs. Brentlinger have dedicated their professional lives to help others, the community is asked to step up and return the favor where possible. Mr. Brentlinger coaches softball at Jackson Center and has also served on the Lakeview Village Council.
The campaign has raised $2,665 from 31 donations since the afternoon of Thursday, March 21.
Despite grappling with their own losses, Mr. Brentlinger continues to work 12-18 hour shifts, assisting fellow community members amidst the chaos of the disaster.
As the Brentlinger family embarks on the daunting journey of rebuilding their lives, the community has rallied behind them. With the aim of easing their financial burden, all donations received are being directed to the Brentlinger family, ensuring they have the necessary resources to navigate through this challenging phase.
Amidst the rubble of their former home, the Brentlingers find strength and hope in the overwhelming support extended by their neighbors and friends. Grateful for the outpouring of assistance, they remain optimistic about the future. Click here to donate.