Local business surprises firefighters after home is destroyed

It was an emotional morning for Donnie Phippin and his wife Kara. The husband and wife firefighter team, who have two young sons, lost their home and pretty much everything in it during a fire back in January.

As a result, the Delmar Ashley Homestore stepped in and gave the family what’s called “the works.” It’s a 14-piece furniture package to replace everything destroyed in their living room. It was a surprise for the Phippins to say the least.

Donnie says, “They told us I was getting a CPR award today.”

The Salisbury Fire Department describes their crew as a family, so it only made sense that when one of their own was down they’d try to help. Donnie’s co-worker Jill Jennings made the call.

Jennings continues, “Last year one of the Salisbury city police officers was involved in a very serious accident. I know that Justin Barnes stepped up and donated furniture to him and his girlfriend for their new home, so I thought maybe he would do the same.”

Barnes goes on, “The funny thing about the phone call is that I had already been in touch with Chief Scott, basically within 24 hours prior to receiving the phone call. Great minds seem to think alike I guess. We were all on the same page.”

The blaze at the Phippin’s Hebron home is believed to have been caused by an electrical malfunction.

Donnie says, “When we go to other people’s fires we pack up and we leave and they deal with everything else. We never knew it was this hard. It’s just…I don’t wish this on anybody.”

The Phippins they tell us they’re more than grateful for their community’s support.

Kara continues, “It’s overwhelming. It’s a good overwhelming because people have been so nice and so caring and so thoughtful.”

The Phippins are waiting to hear back from their insurance company to determine if their home is a total loss

In the meantime, a fundraiser is set for March 5th at the Hebron Fire Department for the family. Tickets are $15. For more information call 410-749-3037.