A fire on Thanksgiving Day has severely damaged the Douglas Brothers Foundation, a nonprofit organization in Clayton County dedicated to feeding families and assisting children. Despite the extensive damage, the founders, Harry and Stephanie Douglas, remain committed to their mission and are determined to continue their holiday initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- The Douglas Brothers Foundation suffered extensive damage from a fire on Thanksgiving Day.
- Founders Harry and Stephanie Douglas are focused on recovery and continuing their community support.
- The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it reportedly started in the back of the building.
The Incident
On Thursday afternoon, while many were celebrating Thanksgiving, Harry and Stephanie Douglas received a distressing call about a fire at their nonprofit’s location in Jonesboro. Upon arrival, they found the Clayton County Fire Department already on the scene, battling the flames that had engulfed both the office and kitchen areas of the foundation.
The couple expressed their devastation upon seeing the damage. "I cried yesterday when I pulled up and saw the destruction," said Stephanie. Despite the emotional toll, they are determined to remain positive and continue their work in the community.
Community Impact
The Douglas Brothers Foundation is named after the couple’s sons, Harry Douglas, a former Atlanta Falcon, and Tony Douglas, a former NBA player. The foundation has been a vital resource in the community, providing meals and support to families in need. Just last weekend, they served over 350 people during their Thanksgiving meal giveaway.
With the holiday season approaching, the foundation is less than a month away from their annual holiday festival, where they distribute meals and toys to children in need. Currently, they are preparing bags for 220 children, ensuring that every child receives a gift despite the recent setback.
Recovery Efforts
As cleanup efforts begin, Harry and Stephanie are focused on restoring their services. They have already started clearing debris and salvaging what they can from the wreckage. Thankfully, items collected for the children’s holiday bags were stored in a separate building and remain intact.
"I know I serve a good God, and I believe that somehow, some way, we’re going to continue to do what we do," Harry stated, emphasizing their commitment to the community.
Looking Ahead
The Douglas Brothers Foundation has a history of supporting the community beyond the holiday season, hosting back-to-school events and various programs throughout the year. The couple’s resilience and dedication to their mission are evident as they navigate this challenging time.
While the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, the Douglas family is focused on recovery and ensuring that their community continues to receive the support it needs. Their unwavering spirit serves as an inspiration to many, proving that even in the face of adversity, hope and determination can prevail.
Sources
- – YouTube, YouTube · 11Alive.
