Local businesses are banding together to help a family in the wake of a devastating fire that destroyed their home the day after Hurricane Irma struck central Florida.
On Sept. 12, Teresa and Allen Baker, who lived in their Wildwood home for more than 25 years, lost power because of the hurricane and were living by candlelight. While the Bakers were in a separate room of their home, one of their candles set a room in their home ablaze.
As a result, the Bakers not only lost their home, but part of their livelihood, as they had also been operating an in-home daycare center business.
When the Baker’s daughter, Taylor, relayed the devastating news to her employer, Hair and Nail Creations of Wildwood, salon owner Annette Frederick sprang into action. The salon, which was supposed to celebrate its 20th year in business the week of the hurricane, decided to turn their anniversary celebration into a fundraiser instead.
“This local family has been through some terrible times this year, and we decided the best way to celebrate 20 years in business is by giving back and helping them” said Frederick.
The business decided to hold an auction for the community, and has asked local businesses to donate items with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting the Baker family.
“Ace Hardware has graciously donated a brand new grill, Connie Wise from State Farm in The Villages has donated a flat screen TV, Sumter Tire has donated a brand new set of tires, and Nordic Pawn Shop has donated a gun. We also have donations from Sonny’s BBQ, City Fire, and foodtruck Papa Pineapples,” added Frederick.
The auction will be held this Saturday, Oct. 14, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Hair and Nail Creations in Wildwood (104 S Main St). Villagers and local residents are encouraged to attend and donate to a good cause. Any business interested in donating items or services for the event can do so by contacting the salon at 352-303-2933, or by emailing salon.wildwood@gmail.com.
