Millerton couple ‘amazed’ by support following fire

MILLERTON — While they continue to recover from the heartbreak of having recently lost their home in a fire, married couple Janice Hylton [of Hylton Hundt Salon] and Gail Smallridge were humbled by the community support they’ve received through the GoFundMe page created to help them recover.

On the afternoon of Sunday, July 12, the pair discovered a solar battery on fire in their garage, leading to a two-alarm fire that cost them their Boston Corners Road home and most of their belongings. While no physical injuries were reported, the emotional toll of losing their beloved house was huge. 

Davin Eurich, the couple’s niece, decided to create a GoFundMe page entitled, “Janice & Gail House Fire Go-Fund-Me,” with the goal of raising $5,000. While Hylton and Smallridge were initially reluctant to agree, they were “blown away” by the community’s support, according to Hylton. By late Monday morning, July 20, there were already 116 donors — many of whom left heartfelt messages on the page — and a total of $17,660 raised.

“The support has been astonishing, humbling and we are deeply, deeply grateful, and it will really jumpstart our path forward,” Hylton said.

“It’s just been so remarkable how many people have come forward with offers of kindness, donations of money, emotional support, clothing, food, all kinds of things,” said Bonnie Hundt, Hylton’s ling-time partner at the salon, “and it definitely makes the process a little bit easier, certainly emotionally, and it’s been amazing.”

As of now, Hylton and Smallridge are staying with a friend in Ancram. Looking ahead, Hylton said they believe they’ve secured a long-term rental in Millerton and that she and Smallridge are looking to move forward with the process of rebuilding.

“It’s going to be a long haul,” she said, “but it’s a step at a time and the path for us, we are grateful to be unfolding full of grace. We think we’re going to end up where we need to be.”

To the five fire companies that responded to the emergency call last week, Hylton commended their service, adding that she and Smallridge owe them “a huge debt of gratitude.” 

As for their neighbors who have stood by them through this unexpected loss, she said, “We feel loved and very fortunate.”

To donate online, go to www.gofundme.com/f/m2xte2-rebuilding-after-a-fire.