Fundraiser Started For Norwich Play Space Damaged In Flood

NORWICH, CT — A Norwich play space was damaged after the partial collapse of a Yantic River dam caused flooding, but clean-up efforts and a fundraiser intend to get the child-centered business back on its feet.

Busy Bees' Play Hive, which is located at 20 New London Turnpike, posted the following on Facebook last week:

"It is with a sad heart to say we are closed and we're not sure when we'll be able to reopen. We love our community so much, so many of you have reached out."

The post garnered 302 reactions and 50 comments from supporters.

Since the floodwaters poured in, work has been going on nonstop to restore the play space.

A fundraiser was started by Heather Johnson on behalf of Shilo Santor. She had this to say on GoFundMe:

"It is with a heavy heart to say that our beloved indoor play 'hive' was strongly affected by this most recent storm and the partial dam collapse. As everyone knows Busy Bees is a family, and veteran owned and operated business. Shilo & Keith opened Busy Bees because it was important for them to bring something to their community that would help it thrive. With saying that they open Busy Bees each and every day for not much monetary gain, they open their doors to gain rich friendships, smiles, laughs, and fun. So, if you can please donate to this cause and share it on your platforms to bring our beloved Busy Bees family back stronger than ever!"

Johnson posted updates saying that a lot of progress has been made in recent days. The water has been removed, the space has been power washed, and flooring has been added.

As of Wednesday morning, the fundraiser had generated $4,150 out of a $10,000 goal.

To donate, go to GoFundMe.

Recently, a federal emergency was declared to provide assistance following the breach of the Fitchville Pond Dam.

See related: Federal Emergency Declared In New London County After Dam Breach