MILLERS FALLS — Neighbors are stepping up to help the Verchot family, who was displaced by a devastating fire at 20 Bridge St.
In addition to money and supplies that have been donated to help the Verchots following the Nov. 8 blaze, Element Brewing Co. will host a fundraiser on Wednesday, Nov. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The brewery plans to donate 75% of sales to the Verchots, who have been living in a hotel. Further donations will be collected as well.
“Since they are in a hotel, donations of gift cards to local restaurants and stores are especially helpful,” brewery co-owner Dan Kramer explained in an email.
The Whistle Stop Cafe, another Miller Falls business, will sell apple crisp at the fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting the Verchot family. Musician John Mlynick will perform.
The fire destroyed the two-family home at 20 Bridge St. and resulted in the death of 66-year-old Judy Verchot, as well as two cats. Granddaughter Janelle Verchot said her mother, who declined to comment, and her husband, Jacobo Roque, were home when the fire started and were able to escape. Six-year-old Colton Roque, Judy Verchot’s grandson, was rescued by passersby before first responders arrived. Harry Chapin, Judy Verchot’s boyfriend who also lived at the house, was driving home when the fire started.
Element Brewing Co. has hosted other fundraisers in the past for the library and for other fire victims. Although the brewery’s co-owners weren’t in town when the fire happened, co-owner Ben Anhalt noted that Kramer’s son attended Amherst High School with members of the Verchot family, and they feel especially inclined to help in this terrible situation.
“They are our neighbors,” Anhalt said. “They are part of our community.”
Bella Levavi can be reached at 413-930-4579 or blevavi@recorder.com.