Community hosting fundraisers for family of 12-year-old who died in fire

The community is showing up for a Southwest Florida family dealing with unimaginable pain after losing a 12-year-old to a house fire.

Kristina Hatcher is trying to heal after her sister, Laiellah, died while trying to rescue her dogs from a burning home in Arcadia on March 16.

On Saturday, the community is hosting two fundraisers for the family.

Ashley Beck is hosting an event with live music, food and activities starting at 1 p.m. at 3922 CR 661-A, in Arcadia.

“Making an impact on them is very little to what they’re going through right now,” Beck said. “So, I know what we’re doing, it just takes a little bit of stress off of them.”

“That’s what we’re here for,” Beck added.

David Hendricks is also trying to rally his neighborhood to raise money for the family.

He’s throwing a private event at his community pool in Arcadia.

Hendricks said he spoke to Laiellah’s father.

“It was devastating just to hear him talk just for about 15 minutes,” Hendricks said. “I mean, we’ve done this, we’ve helped out the DeSoto High School, we’ve done golf tournaments for cancer, but this one here is a lot different.”

“This is one that really sticks out with everybody to step up,” Hendricks added.

Kristina, Laiellah’s sister, said she won’t be able to make it to either event because she will be at the hospital visiting her mother who suffered burns in the fire.

Kristina said what her family needs the most now is support. She said it’s amazing how many people have donated to them.

The events today will help the Hatchers get back on their feet.

“We have our good days, we have our bad days,” Kristina said. “It’s day-by-day. It really is. For all, we’re all still hurting. We’re concerned for my mom. But we’re glad she’s doing better.”

If you can’t make it to the raiser, you can donate items to Walt’s Garage.