ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – Becoming parents at a young age can be hard but for one couple the challenges intensified when they lost everything in a fire.
Where Noah and Faith Smith’s home once stood, there is now only ashes and debris.
“You‘re watching everything disappear,” explained Faith. “Most of all I was just thankful that we weren‘t there. We were okay.”
The couple, at just 19 and 21 years old, experienced an unimaginable loss when their trailer caught fire on October 3rd, just days before their one-year anniversary of owning the home. The flames consumed all their belongings, including their furniture, clothes, and tragically, the life of their dog, Jax.
“I wouln‘t wish in on nobody,” said Noah. “I wouldn’t want anybody to go through what we went through, losing everything.”
The couple is now focused on their 3-month-old daughter, Maisie.
“It was the first place we’ve ever had on our own, and it’s the only place she’s ever known,” explained Faith.
Despite their heartache, the Smiths have found solace in the overwhelming support from the Covington community. Donations began pouring in immediately after the fire, with family, friends, and even strangers stepping up to help.
“They‘re young, and they’ve worked really hard for everything they had. And it’s really sad to see everything go,” said Noah’s Cousin Kiersten Persinger. “We’re just grateful that we can support them, and we’re glad Maisie will never remember this.”
Thanks to the community’s generosity, the Smiths received essential items for Maisie and much more.
“Without the community and all the donations, we would be struggling very badly,” added Faith and Noah.
As they sort through the outpouring of support, Noah and Faith are also committed to giving back. They have chosen to send some of the donations to victims of Hurricane Helene, inspired by their own experience.
“We know how hard it is to lose everything, so we want to help someone else,” explained Noah.
Now, the Smiths are hopeful about rebuilding their lives and finding a new home.
They are grateful for the help from Randy Hostetter, Mountain Waste, and Dizzy Garten. The community’s support has been a beacon of hope during this dark time.
If you would like to donate to their rebuilding journey, click here.
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