Fundraiser Friday for Scott Family

It is unimaginable to think about the heartbreak Deborah Scott experiences every day since three of her four children passed away after a fire swept through their home in November.

Dayja Scott, 9; Daliya Scott, 8, died at the scene. Their brothers Michael Scott, 7, and Luther Scott, 5, were transported to Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Michael Scott passed away the following day, but Luther Scott was recently released from the hospital and is back with his mother.

Mike Degarmo, a 13-year veteran of the Racine Fire Department is one of the organizers of the Scott Family Fundraiser on Friday. He told Patch that Luther's health continues to get better.

"I know he is improving daily," Degarmo confirmed.

Because many of the fire fighters, paramedics and police who responded that early morning are parents, too, they were particularly touched by this tragedy. To help themselves heal and to provide a way for the Scotts to move forward with their lives, they're banding together with other community organizations for the fundraiser.

"We are problem solvers, but sometimes we come across problems we can't solve," said Degarmo. "Loss of life is always tough, and when it involves children, especially losing three children like this, it's really hard.

After reading news stories about people in the community possibly getting together for a fundraiser, Degarmo said he thought bringing in the fire department and the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin - for which he is in charge of public relations - was a good way to join forces for a fundraising success for both the short- and long-term needs of the family.

"We have to consider housing, medical bills and on-going care for Luther," Degarmo added. "We're hoping to set up an education fund for him, too."

From 4 - 9 p.m. Friday at Festival Hall, everyone is invited to enjoy a mostaccioli dinner together, play games, decorate cookies and learn about fire safety. Special visits are planned by Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as Frosty the Snowman. A DJ will spin hits and everyone is encouraged to participate in the raffle for some really great prizes donated by local businesses and residents, too.

Adults are $10 and children age 6 and under are $5. Festival Hall is located at 5 Fifth Street, Racine.

For more information, or to contribute a raffle item, volunteer, or sponsor a table, please visit www.scottfamilyfund.org; email info@scottfamilyfund.org; or call (262) 989.9693. Monetary donations sent payable to Scott Family Fund at 1510 Villa Street, Racine WI 53403.