by Rachel Hunter

In the wake of a devastating house fire, a DeKalb family—Brandon and Melanie (Wright) MacDonald and their three children, Noah, Molly, and Colt—returned to find their home reduced to ashes. Though they were not home when the fire broke out and were thankfully unharmed, the flames claimed nearly everything else: furniture, clothing, sports equipment, treasured keepsakes, and heartbreakingly, their beloved pets. The rhythms of daily life were shattered in an instant. Yet in true North Country spirit, neighbors, friends, local businesses, and community organizations are rising with compassion and resolve, determined to help the MacDonald family rebuild not just their home, but their hope.

A benefit spaghetti dinner and auction fundraiser will be held on Sunday, November 16, beginning at 2 p.m. and continuing until gone, at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, 1419 US-11, Gouverneur. The meal includes spaghetti, salad, and a roll for $15 per person, with options to eat in or take out. A bake sale will offer sweet treats for dessert.

The event will also feature a benefit auction by local auctioneer Dave Bush, with donated items from businesses and community members across the region. Community members are encouraged to contribute to help the family begin the long journey of recovery. All proceeds will go directly to the MacDonald family. This fundraiser reaches beyond replacing possessions—it’s a call to restore hope, rebuild what was lost, and surround the MacDonald family with the unwavering presence of a community that cares.

Donations can be made by contacting Mike Countryman (315-286-3143), Kelly Countryman (315-268-3144), or the Gouverneur Elks Lodge (315-287-1630). Rebuilding begins when a community shows up, stands strong, and refuses to let one of its own face hardship alone.