CATLETT, Va. — A family-run farm in Catlett lost 30 lambs in a barn fire on Sunday that ruined the structure and also caused damage to nearby buildings and equipment. Now, the family is seeking the public's help to rebuild after the fire.
According to a verified fundraiser on GoFundMe, the barn was a symbol of the Trumbo family heritage and hard work. Posted by a family friend, the fundraiser says owners Doug and Sloan Trumbo run the impacted property which "has been in their family for 5 generations, farming here in Catlett, VA for over 100 years."
The barn was reportedly built by Doug's father and grandfather. The post claims the fire was caused by lightning and "burned so hot that it damaged nearby buildings, equipment on the farm, and took out the electricity to their farm and house well pump." While no person was hurt, the family says it is struggling with the emotional and financial toll from the fire.
"While the insurance company will cover replacement of the barn with a moderate structure, it falls short of covering the full extent of the damage," the post reads. "The cleanup, contents of the barn, and replacement electrical to get the well back up are not covered. Additionally, the existing livestock now have nowhere for shelter while the barn is being rebuilt, adding to the urgency of the situation."
The family is seeking donations which it says will go "directly towards replacing the lost equipment, restocking the livestock, and fully restoring the barn. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in their journey to recovery."
As of publishing, the fundraiser had already received 55 donations, raising nearly $7,500 of a $20,000 goal.