SOUTH AMBOY, N.J. — A house fire that broke out on April 6 left the Hanna family homeless and mourning the loss of their dog, as friends and supporters rally to help them recover from the devastation.
Key Points
- The Hanna family lost their home and possessions in an April 6 fire in South Amboy
- Their dog, Tofu Raphael, did not survive the blaze; no human injuries were reported
- A fundraiser has been launched to support housing, essentials, and artist Martina Hanna’s career restart
According to a statement from organizer Kylie Gilbertson, the Hanna family — Martina, Izabelle, and Mario — escaped the blaze with only the clothes on their backs. While they survived the fire, they now face the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives.
The fire destroyed all personal belongings and also claimed the life of Martina’s dog, Tofu Raphael, affectionately known as Dito. The family has expressed gratitude for their safety but is grieving the loss of their pet.
Fundraiser underway for essentials and recovery
The GoFundMe campaign aims to raise money for temporary housing, basic needs, medical bills, and costs associated with rebuilding. Martina Hanna, described as a passionate and talented artist, also lost all of her paintings and art supplies in the fire.
Friends say the support will not only help the family through the immediate aftermath but will also allow Martina to replace her destroyed tools and continue her artistic career without additional hardship.
Community response grows
“They are incredible people,” the campaign states. “If you have met any of them, you know the amazing and beautiful souls they are.”
Donations are being collected through the online platform, where Gilbertson is leading efforts to help the family recover and restart.
A South Amboy fire left a family homeless and grieving the loss of their dog, as the community rallies to support their recovery and an artist’s fresh start.
