Community warms the hearts of family after house fire

"There's no question by the grace of God we are still living just another minute or two would have been another story." 

Suzi Peterson says she never sleeps on the couch, but after passing out Friday night something stirred her sleep. 

"I woke up I guess around midnight by the smell and I hopped right up," says Suzi. 

Within minutes the Peterson's home of 16 years was engulfed in flames. Luckily the family of five plus their daughter Dori's best friend, Zoe Lloyd, all got out in time and unharmed.

"If it wasn't for Ms. Suzi sleeping down there and waking up none of us, I really don't believe any of us would be alive right now," Zoe continues, "We got out of the house and within seconds it had all filled up with smoke and next thing you know the windows were busting and we just sat there as we watched the house that they have raised their family in just burn down." 

A house filled with memories now reduced to ashes.

That's why Zoe decided to start a GofundMe page just to raise any money she could to help out, but she never thought people would be so giving. 

"They lost everything they had, but just to see the support from the community and the love that's been shown to them has been amazing," says Zoe. 

In less than three days the GoFundMe page has already doubled it's goal of $10,000, leaving the Peterson's almost lost for words. 

"It's just amazing, it's humbling. Our pastor the night of the fire he said 'I think you're going to see an outpouring of love that you can't imagine' and that's exactly what's happening,
 says Suzi. 

 On top of the GoFundMe page, the Peterson's school, Salisbury Christian has donated new uniforms for them.

And North Salisbury Elementary, where Suzi works, has donated gift cards and meals. The Peterson's tell 47 ABC they can't express their thanks in words for everything that's being done for them and just how amazing the community has been. 

If you would like to contribute here is the link to the GoFundMe page.