Elderly Couple And Their Senior Dog Displaced After Storm Drops Tree On Somerset Co. Home

WARREN, NJ — The community is rallying to help an elderly couple and their senior dog, who have been displaced after the intense July 3 storm dropped a massive tree on their Warren Township home.

A GoFundMe fundraising website has been set up for the family after the severe storm struck the Martin Family’s neighborhood, leaving their home and belongings badly damaged.

Three people died during the storm in neighboring communities including one woman in North Plainfield and two men in Plainfield.

The National Weather Service said that based on photos and dopler radar imagery, the damage that occurred during the storm is consistent with straight-line winds and downbursts. Wind speeds were estimated to range from 65 to 80 mph.

Gary and Linda Martin have been Warren Township residents since 2006 and have a senior dog named Abbie.

"Gary, a retired Merck employee and professor of graduate nuclear magnetic resonance at Seton Hall and Stevens Institute of Technology, volunteers with the local library, providing continuing education lectures in photography, according to the GoFundMe.

"Linda, a retired registered pharmacist, is an avid quilter who often produces her stunning handicraft for charity purposes. Both have dedicated their lives to their professions and community. The storm forced them to leave their home, and they are now facing the challenge of starting over," according to the GoFundMe.

The family’s most urgent need is to replace essential items lost in the disaster.

"They are working to find stability and comfort while caring for Abbie, who has also been affected by the sudden changes," according to the GoFundMe. "The support from this fundraiser will help them purchase basic necessities, secure temporary housing, and begin the process of rebuilding their lives after this unexpected hardship."

Since the fundraiser was launched, more than $2,500 has been raised of the $5,000 goal. To learn more or to donate, visit gofundme.com/f/july-3rd-storm-relief-for-martin-family.

"Every contribution will make a real difference for the Martin Family as they recover from the storm’s impact," according to the GoFundMe. "Your kindness will help them regain a sense of normalcy and hope during this difficult time."

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