LINCOLN – After a lightning-caused fire destroyed her shed full of belongings and burned part of her home over the weekend, Chef Jeanne Michon is asking that people contribute to her wider goal of expanding the New Beginnings food site at its new location.
Michon, a Lincoln resident who has been recognized many times over the years for her giving to others, said she lost so many memories in the fire. She said in addition to personal belongings, she lost the 8.5-foot tree that was to be used for the first Christmas at the pending new location for New Beginnings, as well as two train sets to go around the tree. To this point, the food pantry has never had a place to put a tree during the holidays. Also burned in the fire were six cases of contractor garbage bags and a case of notebooks, among other items.
Personal belongings lost included a toolbox Michon had saved to buy for her husband on their first anniversary, and his golf clubs.
She told The Local Insider they’re hoping to move into the former Le Club Par-X at 36 Stanley Ave. within three weeks.
John Levreault established a GoFundMe fundraiser to help her replace the shed and materials lost in the fire, and as of late Tuesday morning, more than $6,000 has been raised.
Michon is asking people to also support their ongoing fundraiser is to continue renovating a new Woonsocket space for New Beginnings. They’re trying to raise $20,000 to fund the renovation. People can donate through PayPal, at , and through Venmo, @newbeginningskitchen. Donation checks can also be mailed to New Beginnings, PO Box 244, Woonsocket, RI 02895.
Their contractor is coming back this week to finish up work, she said, and then they’ll wait on the Rhode Island Department of Health for final approval.
“Jeanne Michon has spent years giving her time, energy, and heart to helping people in the Woonsocket community through New Beginnings,” he posted. “She has been there for others with food, support, and a helping hand when it was needed most. Now Jeanne is the one who needs support.”
He added, “Donations will help Jeanne rebuild the shed, replace the supplies and belongings she lost, and cover repairs to the back of her house so she can begin getting things back to normal after this unexpected loss.”
Michon, he said, has given so much to others over the years. Any donation, no matter the size, or even sharing this fundraiser, will help show her that her community is here for her now, he added. “Thank you for supporting Jeanne Michon during this difficult time.”
