Fundraiser benefits Middletown family devastated by fatal fire

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

Middletown, R.I — A community came together Wednesday night to show support for a family who was torn apart by a deadly house fire in Middletown.

A benefit pasta dinner to support the Arroyo family at the Middletown High School drew more than 700 people. In fact, the line to enter the venue extended out the door of the Middletown High School cafeteria.

Many of the supporters wore green, which was 7-year-old Ramon Arroyo’s favorite color.

“Knowing the family it’s so horrible and tragic that we definitely just wanted to come show support for her, and for everyone,” said Middletown freshmen, Margaret Leroy.

Leilaney and Cheyanne, Ramon’s sisters and high school students in Middletown, survived the fire. 

“We went to the funeral today, and we’ve been with her, and visiting them all the time and Leilaney’s like our best friend…And we just came to volunteer and it’s been really great,” said Lexi Hartley; Middletown freshmen.

The MLK Community Center collected donations for the Arroyo family, but would not get into specifics about how much was raised. However, they say it will help.

“We’ve been receiving a lot of donations. There are also a lot of people at the door that are paying and saying ‘just keep the change.’ Being very generous with their donations,” said Assistant Director of MLK Center, Heather Strout.

“When you lose everything you can’t even fathom all of the little things that you need. And I’m hoping that this will provide the things that they need to get back on their feet,” said Gail Abromitis; Middletown High School principal.

Supporters tell ABC6 that the family did not attend the dinner because they are still grieving. The family will receive the proceeds when they are ready.

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016