Community Rallies to Support Local Hero After Family Loses Home to Fire and Faces Looting

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Yolanda Johnson, known in her community for her selfless service, is now on the receiving end of support after losing her home to a fire. Just before 6 a.m. on Saturday, Johnson, her husband, and their son narrowly escaped the blaze that engulfed their residence on Hazel Avenue, thanks to their dog, Lilly, who alerted them to the danger.

For years, Johnson has dedicated herself to helping others, especially during the holidays when she provides meals to over 250 homeless individuals. Jeannie Oldham, a local business owner, highlighted Johnson’s generous spirit, saying, “Every Thanksgiving and Christmas, she feeds dinner to 250 homeless people.” Oldham, along with others in the Kenwick neighborhood, are now rallying to raise funds to support Johnson and her family.

In what has been a devastating turn of events, Johnson’s family not only lost their home but also became victims of looting shortly after the fire, which further exacerbated their plight. They are currently accommodated in motel rooms but urgently need a more permanent living situation.

Friends and local businesses, including Wilson’s Grocery and Ruth Hunt Candies, have stepped up to assist the Johnson family by setting up donation jars for contributions. “For this to happen to her, it’s wrong,” Oldham noted, commending the community’s efforts to come together during a time of crisis. “My boss suggested we set up a donation box here. A lot of people have been donating otherwise, too.”

As the Johnson family seeks to regain their footing, community members are encouraged to contribute to the fund drive. The immediate objective is to gather enough resources to secure affordable housing, allowing the family to begin rebuilding their lives after this tragic incident.

This response illustrates the strong bonds within the Kenwick community, where residents are committed to supporting each other in times of need. Donations and support continue to flow, reflecting the values of compassion and an unyielding spirit of solidarity.