WHO: Joanne and Leah

AGENCY: Norwich Human Services

SITUATION: They lived in a Norwich apartment for about a year. While they were away, their dog jumped up on the gas stove and turned a knob, igniting a flame, which eventually burned down their house and the apartment below it. The pets, a dog, two cats and a snake, died. Both are avid animal lovers and Leah works as a dog groomer at PetCo. Joanne and Leah lost all their belongings in the fire. They are trying to rebuild their lives and have found a new apartment but have little to no furnishings, clothing and personal care items. They did not have renters insurance for the apartment that burned down but have it for the new apartment.

WHAT TO GIVE: They would be very grateful to receive gift cards to Walmart, Stop & Shop and Amazon to help rebuild their lives. Please send donations to Norwich Human Services, Norwich City Hall, 100 Broadway, Norwich CT 06360, marked “Make a Difference.”