Offers of Help Pour In after Ross Township Family Loses Everything in House Fire

First, their neighbors helped save their lives, now they are helping the Heyl family recover from a devastating fire, which took everything but the clothes on their back.

Jeff Heyl, his wife, and their two children were awakened by neighbor Paul Shields pounding on their door Friday morning as fire spread through their two-story brick home at 125 Lilac Ave. in Ross Township. The family ran to safety in pajamas and bare feet. 

Ever since, neighbors have been providing help and seeking even more support. The following was posted on North Hills Patch over the weekend:

THE HEYL FAMILY IS IN NEED OF THE FOLLOWING: 

Kevin is 8 years old, size 8 to 10 kids pants, medium shirt, size 4 shoe.

Krissy is 11 years old, in sixth grade, size 16 youth pants, Jr. medium size shirt, shoe size 9 adult.

Kim: Misses XL tops, 34 pants, shoe size 9.

Jeff: large shirt, 32-34 pants, size 9 1/2 shoes. Adult hoodies size large, gloves.

Donations or questions: contact Mike Shields @ 412-369-9669.

In addition, a bank account has been set up to benefit the family:

Monetary donations are being sent to West View Savings Bank, 9001 Perry Highway, 15237, C/O Jeff Heyl Fund. Contact Lori Ross @ 412-364-1911 with questions.

Neighbors and family members have also been sharing ideas and offering support on the North Hills Patch Facebook page.

The Ross Township Fire Marshal said the fire started under the rear deck of the home. It has been ruled an accident. 

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