Reed/Applebaum Families Need Your Help as Fire Destroys Home of Former MCS Teacher

GoFundMe Page to Help the Reed/Applebaum Family Recover from House Fire

By David Avitabile

MIDDLEBURGH - A GoFundMe page has been established to help a former Middleburgh Central School teacher and her family after a devastating fire destroyed their home in Canajoharie Monday.

"We are reaching out with heavy hearts to share the news that a devastating house fire struck the home of Mark Reed and Linda Reed, along with their granddaughter Aaliyah Applebaum and Linda’s son Aaron Applebaum. Thankfully, everyone is safe and unharmed, but the fire completely destroyed their home and all of their belongings," it was announced on Facebook Tuesday morning.

"Mark, Linda, Aaliyah, and Aaron are now facing the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives from scratch. They have lost not only their home but also their clothing, food, and essential items. While we are incredibly grateful that they are all okay, they urgently need support to get back on their feet. They do have a house to live in for the time being."

Ms. Reed (aka Mrs. Applebaum) was a popular middle school teacher for many years at MCS.

"We are asking for any help you can provide—whether it's a donation for food, clothes, or other essentials. Every little bit counts and will go a long way in helping them start anew. We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to the brave firefighters who worked tirelessly to keep everyone safe.

"Thank you for your generosity, compassion, and support during this difficult time. Together, we can help Mark, Linda, Aaliyah, and Aaron rebuild their lives."

As of early Tuesday afternoon, $3,095 was raised from 36 donations. The goal is $10,000.

"Today, a devastating fire destroyed my father-in-law Mark's home," Kelly Reed wrote on Facebook. "Thankfully, everyone, including Mark, his wife Linda, their granddaughter Aaliyah, and Linda’s son Aaron, is safe and unharmed. While we are deeply grateful for their safety, they have lost everything in the fire.

Here is the link to the GoFundMe:

https://gofund.me/35776561

They also wanted to extend their heartfelt thanks to the firefighters who worked tirelessly to ensure everyone’s safety.

"Please keep Mark, Linda, Aaliyah, and Aaron in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support," Kelly Reed added.