On Jan. 10, a fire displaced a family of five at 92 Ben Titus Road in Rush Township.

The fire claimed the lives of two pets and consumed most of the family's belongings, losses that are only partially covered by homeowner's insurance.One of the occupants, Rose Mashak, was injured in the fire and transported to an area hospital for treatment of burns to her feet. The other fire victims include Megan Devlin, Aaron Gimbel and two children.A local community initiative group, the Tamaqua Volunteers, has stepped forward to coordinate a fund drive to benefit the victims. A spokesman for the volunteers, said monetary donations are the best way to help the victims. Donations can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank to the "BEN TITUS FIRE" fund; or at Thorn's Cycles and ATV, 615 North Railroad St., Tamaqua; online via the group's fundraiser page:

www.gofundme.com; call the Tamaqua Volunteers at 570- 668-1234; or call the family at 570-668-4141 or 570-778-2212 for more information.