Just nine days after the Jan. 4 barn fire at Classy Lanes Stables, fundraising campaigns had already raised $252,014.
Four GoFundMe pages joined forces to raise money for those affected by the fire.
Of that $235,950 ($500,000 goal) was raised through the GoFundMe page set up created by Cathy Boughton and set up by the Central Ontario Standardbred Association.
That GoFundMe page, raised nearly $100,000 within the first 48 hours.
Other GoFundMe campaigns were organized by:
– Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Shiland, an equine veterinarian at Classy Lane Training Centre, with a goal of $5,000 (raised $5,200);
– Michael Carter (racing podcast ‘Post Time with Mike and Mike’), for owners, trainers, and the farm, $15,000 goal (raised $9,004);
– Tia Elizabeth, “for the individuals affected by the tragic losses,” $3,000 goal (raised $1,860).
As Puslinch Mayor Dennis Lever spoke to councillors on Jan. 6, he too noted a number of GoFundMe campaigns have started up.
Lever noted there are a number of people now without jobs and he strongly encouraged councillors to make donations.
“It’s a devastating incident to happen,” said Lever.
Owners Jamie and Barb Millier report that support from the community and others in the industry has been unbelievable. Local restaurants have dropped off hot food and the Millers have received calls of support from around the world.
