Big turnout at benefit for family who lost home in fire

AMENIA — More than 250 people arrived at the Immaculate Conception Church in Amenia last Sunday, Oct. 17, in support of the Stanford family, whose home was destroyed by fire near the beginning of the month.

David Stanford is the league president of the Webutuck Valley Youth Soccer League. The benefit event was put on by friends, family, coaches and other people associated with the soccer program.

Most of the spaghetti dinner was donated by local businesses; Cedar Hill Farm contributed meat, T & F Baked Goods donated bread, Freshtown handled some odds and ends and Cub Scout Pack 29 brought baked goods and a large number of Scouts who joined the ranks of the many volunteers helping to cook, serve and clean up.

The five members of the Stanford family have since relocated from their home near the top of DeLavergne Hill in Amenia and are working on the slow process of moving out their belongings.

“It’s been a tremendous past few weeks,� David Stanford told the audience at the dinner. “We’ve been living here full time for 15 years, and this event has shown how wonderful our life is to be connected to so many great people in the community.�

Stanford and his wife, Therese, thanked all of the people who have given their time, effort and encouragement over the past few weeks, especially highlighting the efforts of the Amenia Fire Company and attending companies who were at the scene to put out the fire.

“We’re so grateful for what they do, the training and time that they put in to their work,� he said.

“We’re so lucky to live in a town like this,� his wife added.

All of the proceeds from the dinner will be used to assist the family in their period of transition.