A family who recently lost their home and belongings to a house fire has gotten some help from Jellystone Park of rural Austin.

A couple with two young children has been staying at Jellystone, 21943 630th Ave., while waiting for a rental home. When Jellystone owner Tammy Westrich found out about the recent loss, she decided to rent them the site for no charge and ask the community of campers for donations for the family.

Westrich said both long-term and short-term campers have donated, even people who don’t have a lot of money themselves have donated new clothing and toys for the children.

“The face on that boy when he got a bag of LEGOS,” she said about the excitement one of the children had. “Obviously by the donations, they did help light up these kids’ worlds.”

The family declined to comment and asked not to be named.

She said the parents have been very grateful for clothing donations as well. The family purchased their camper about a year ago, and Westrich said it was lucky they at least have that for shelter.

The fire took a large portion of the house and damaged the rest with smoke and water from fire-fighter hoses. Westrich hoped to ask for donations without the family knowing, but they found out and were very grateful. Westrich said she and her family have had troubles with a fire and a large accident which ruined many of their records and things in the past, so she wanted to help out the family when she learned they were in need.

“We’re going to continue to help them as long as we can,” Westrich said.

The park is still asking for donations, which can be dropped off at the main office at Jellystone. Girl clothing is needed in size 4-5 toddler and boy clothing is needed in size 6-7. Toys are recommended for princess themed items and LEGOS.