SYLVESTER, Ga. (WALB) - The Lane family was left with nothing but the clothes on their backs after a fire destroyed their entire house in January.

Thankfully, no one was home during the fire, but the family lost their seven dogs and one cat in the tragedy. Now, the Worth County community is coming together to help them pick up the pieces.

The Lanes moved into their house with their two young children just six months ago. Faith tells WALB that the kids are having a hard time understanding what happened to their toys and most importantly, their beloved animals.

“There’s not a day that goes by where we don’t talk about our dogs. That’s a big one for us. But, yeah we told her that they are in heaven and one day she will see them again,” said Faith Lane.

Just last week, the Lane family moved into their temporary rental house. Faith says that she made an Amazon Wishlist to send to close friends and family, but the community got ahold of it. Now thanks to them, the entire rental house is furnished with items others have purchased or donated.

“People have just overwhelmed us with clothing donations, furniture donations, really just anything anyone can help us with,” continued Lane.

Support isn’t just coming from Sylvester residents. Small businesses are also lending a helping hand. Sunshine Coffee Co. held a fundraiser where most of the sales from that day went directly to the family. On February 19th, Uncle Bill’s Pizzeria is hosting a similar event.

“I tell people how much I appreciate it and how much their actions mean to me. But those words don’t justify how they have made me feel and just how blessed we are,” said Faith Lane.

The family tells WALB that the cause of the fire is still unknown.

On Feb. 8, an Albany family is hosting a huge yard sale where 100% of the proceeds will go to the Lane family.

The yard sale will take place in Albany at 1408 Stuart Avenue. The event is from 8 a.m. until noon.

If you are interested in donating to the family’s GoFundMe, click here.

You can also contribute to Faith’s Amazon Wishlist.

Previous coverage:

• Worth County family loses home and 8 pets to devastating fire

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