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OREM -- Hundreds of people have been touched by the story of an Orem family who lost their home to fire Wednesday afternoon. Now, the family is being overwhelmed by the generosity of strangers.
The Kuster family, which consists of two adults and five children, lost their home after the raging fire consumed a bedroom. The intensity of it gutted that room; water and smoke damage made the rest of the home a complete loss.
In addition to that tragedy, the family lost a 9-year-old daughter, Samantha, to swine flu complications in October.
On Thursday, two Orem city police officers delivered a tree and decorations to the family.
The Kuesters are staying in a hotel for the time being. There have been countless offers of assistance so far, including a check for $2,000 from a local construction company.
"We really appreciate everything everyone has done, and they're in our prayers," Jennifer Kuester said.
The family is overwhelmed with support from strangers from all over the state, and all over the nation. They have released a few ways people can assist:
- PayPal, by clicking "Send Money" to recipient shahlufu@gmail.com
- By mail: P.O. Box 1390
Orem, UT 84059 - Clothing/food, etc to be dropped at Jennifer Kuester's parents, who live next to the home that was destroyed: Steven Kitchen; 155 E. 800 South, Orem UT 84058
Heart 2 Home is also working with the family to channel donations in the most effective manner based on current needs. To donate to the Kuester family or volunteer skills, trades and construction materials, CLICK HERE.
In addition to the above donation options, the Orem Police Department is also accepting donations for the Kuester family. Below is a list of the Kuesters, along with the items they need:
- Rick (Father): wears a 2XL shirt, 42 X 30 jeans and a size 13 shoe.
- Jennifer (Mother): wears a 26-28 shirt, 26 pants and a size 9 shoe.
- Ausha (16), female: wears a 22-24 shirt, 24 pants and a size 10 shoe. She likes drawing, alternative music and stuffed animals.
- Robin (13), female: wears a 18-20 shirt, 16 pants and a size 10 shoe. She likes drawing and board games.
- Eric (11), male: wears a size L shirt, 34 pants and a size 8 (Mens) shoe. He likes video games and Bakguan.
- Alex (6), male: wears a size 5 shirt, 4T pants and a size 4 shoe. He likes video games and Bakguan.
- Rebecca (4), female: wears a size 3T shirt, 3T pants and a size 12 shoe. She like Barbies.
This family could use everything and anything to help get a home furnished. So, any donation can be dropped off at the Orem Department of Public Safety at, 95 E. Center Street, Orem, Utah 84057.
The family has also set up an account at Utah Community Credit Union, just ask for the account that was set up to help the Kuester would also like to thank all of those that have made donations so far.
E-mail: rpiatt@ksl.com
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KSL.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does ksl.com assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
