NEW BERLIN - Community support continues in New Berlin after a family of five lost their home to a fire last week.

At approximately 3:30 a.m. on October 19 at 1 Vista Lane in New Berlin, resident Cait Kinch thought she heard the sound of her alarm going off for work, but instead it was her son waking her to inform her the smoke alarm was going off. Darryl Eccleston,Cait Kinch and their three boys made it out alive.

Kinch said, "It wasn't the wake up call I wanted or would wish on anyone and for anyone that I have ever said, "I can't imagine", you are absolutely right; until you experience it, you can't imagine. We are all safe and couldn't ask for anything different."

New Berlin Fire Chief Don Anderson said fire crews “pretty much” contained the fire to the kitchen and front half of the home. The Red Cross is providing support.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated and local fire officials would not comment pending an investigation by an insurance company.

The chief said the response went smoothly with the support of Pittsville and South New Berlin Fire Departments.

Kinch thanked the New Berlin, the Pittsfield, and South New Berlin Fire Departments.

Kinch also thanked the Red Cross, Unadilla Valley Central School District, Lake Street Lanes, family, friends and neighbors for coming together and said they will be forever grateful. She said Lake Street Lanes held a no tap tournament over the weekend to raise money in support of their loss.

Family members and friends created a go fund me page and also requested specific needs for the family. To donate items, reach out to Suzanne Roche, Tanya Eccleston, Holly Anne, or Liz Pizzuto on their facebook page.

A dinner benefit for the family will be at 4 p.m. on Friday, November 10, located at 75 South Main Street in New Berlin at the Chobani Center (New Berlin Fire Department). The cost will be $10 a dinner and you can eat in or take out. The menu will include baked ziti, meatballs, salad, bread, dessert, juice, water, and lemonade. All money collected will go to the family.

Family member Suzanne Roche gave thanks to NY Pizzeria, Sister Sammy's, Wise guys (Oneonta), New Berlin (UV) Girl Scouts, Adventure Bound Campground, Deer Path, Ted's Auto Body, and to all those that baked and donated desserts.