Fundraiser to be held for woman in Stephenville, after fire destroys business
The Stephenville community has rallied together to help a local business owner rebuild after a devastating fire.
Debbie Wilton's video store on Main Street burned to the ground on March 13.
Wilton had operated Debbie's Video Shoppe for 20 years.
The fire destroyed her shop, as well as several other businesses and the local SPCA. Twenty-four cats and kittens died in the blaze.
Wilton's family and friends have planned a fundraiser for Saturday night, that will include live music and a silent auction.
All monies raised will go to help Wilton open a new video shop, located not far from the old location on Main Street.
"Whether it be family or friends, anyone who was ever in need knew that Aunt Debbie could help out," said Wilton's niece Sasha Boudreau.
"Now that she needs us, I hope this goes over good and we can give back to her."
Wilton's video shop was more than just DVD's and party favours, it was also a regular hub for fundraisers and community events.
"Everybody knew how much this shop meant to me. I love my shop. My shop was the go-to place in Stephenville," she said.
"I didn't realize I had such an impact on the town ... everything I did was from the heart. I know the video business is a fading business. I have the best popcorn in town, and when people come off the road and come in just for bag of popcorn, you know that's good."
It's hoped that after this weekend's fundraising event, Wilton will once again be able to serve up her popcorn, movies, candy and welcoming ways.
"I'm so overwhelmed by it all, because the whole town is behind me, right."
