Manchester Police, community helping family who lost home to fire

In the days following a tragic fire where several pets lost their lives at a home from lightning in the Whiting section of Manchester, the police department and community have come together to help the family who loved there.

Nobody was inside the home at the time of the fire, Manchester Police said, but two cats, a bird and several reptiles were and tragically did not survive the fire.

Manchester Township Police have set up a contact free donation drop off outside of the municipal building and all the items collected will be brought to the family on Wednesday July 8.

Police are collecting donations of New Clothing (Men's and Women's Sizes L and XL), Shoes and Boots (Women's Size 9-10 and Men's Size 12), Gift Cards (Wawa, Target, WalMart, Grocery Stores, etc.) and Household Items (Toiletries, Towels, Paper Towels, etc.).

In addition to the Manchester Township Municipal Building you can drop off items at Evolution Martial Arts at 1565 Route 37 West in Toms River (Suite 8).

Venmo (@barnyardpetz) and GoFundMe pages have been set up for financial donations to the family as well.

Cash or check may be dropped off at 318 Beckerville Road, via a drop box in front of the residence.

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