Community supports families impacted by deadly fire with fundraiser at skate rink in Donora

DONORA, Pa. — Two people were killed, and three families were affected after a fire burned multiple homes in Washington County. On Saturday, the community came together to show their support for the people in need.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> 2 people killed, 3 homes damaged in Donora fire

On Saturday, the community came together to show their support for the people in need.

PHOTOS: Community supports families impacted by deadly fire with fundraiser at skate rink in Donora

For Will Medina, owner of Roll’R’Way in Donora, the compelling feeling to help three families devastated by a fatal fire on Christmas Eve is simple.

“The easiest way to explain it is there is no why,” he said. “You come together during these times, you know? I couldn’t imagine losing everything, losing life on Christmas Eve. It’s devastating to think about being in their shoes. So you just come together as a community. There’s no why.”

This community paid $8 to lace up rollerskates to help three families in need, including Nathaniel Honabarger’s. Honabarger lost his mother, Tracey and father, Clifford Honabarger, in the fire.

“I don’t like asking for help but to see them just donating to all three families it brings a tear to my eye,” he said.

Roll’R’Way started taking donations for the three families just days after the fire. Their party room is now transformed with piles of clothing, home goods and supplies. Even more, donations were being dropped off throughout Saturday’s benefit.

“I came in just to give some extra money,” said Donora resident Terry Perrotta. “I just can’t imagine losing both your wife and a friend. I can’t imagine it.”

This community said they felt compelled to step in and help, and it’s what this small town is all about.

“Donora is a good town,” said Perrotta. “We might not have a whole lot, but people help each other.”

Medina said all the money raised at the door of the benefit skate will go directly to the families. He said that throughout the week, they also collected monetary donations and raised about $1,100 in cash and gift cards so far. Roll’R’Way will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day for those who wish to drop off additional donations.

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