Former Clinton Coach's Family Devastated By Fire; Community Responds

CLINTON, CT — The community is coming to the support of a Clinton family who lost their home to a devastating fire last week.

A fundraiser on GoFundMe has generated $21,006 of a $20,000 target on 163 donations as of Tuesday morning.

The GoFundMe was started by Lisa Earley on behalf of Charles Elrick.

She wrote that the family was "blindsided by the loss of their family home due to a fire."

Elrick and his family have been left without a place to live, and the damage spread through the whole home.

"Chuck and the Elricks have been long time residents in the town of Clinton and are known as a friendly face to all!" Earley wrote. "Chuck recently retired from Hopkins School, where for 39 years he was a staple of the community and the driving force behind the aquatic programs. He coached, mentored and served as a positive influence for thousands of young adults helping to shape their lives. Chuck lives in Clinton with his wife Cheryl and son Brendan; fortunately all were unharmed during this tragedy.

"The Elricks are currently staying with family while trying to recover from this horrific event. Any money donated will help secure housing, clothing and daily needs for the days to come."

To donate, go to GoFundMe.