White City, Ore. – A charity fundraiser will take place later this week for a family who experienced tragic losses in a house fire last month.
On January 14, firefighters were sent to the 3000-block of Dodge Road in White City around 11:00 p.m. for a reported structure fire. When they arrived, two of the residents were outside of the house, and in need of medical attention. One more person was later found dead inside the residence.
According to a GoFundMe page, the Nickerson family was inside the house when the fire started. Jimmy Nickerson rescued his wife, Paula, and their niece from the flames, but he went back inside the burning home to save their dogs. Jimmy did not make it back out of the home alive. One of their three dogs survived. The author of the GoFundMe page noted the Nickerson’s dogs “…were like their children…”
The GoFundMe page said Paula Nickerson was hospitalized after the fire due to severe smoke inhalation and other injuries. Their niece was flown to a Sacramento, California burn center.
The Nickerson’s home was a complete loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Community members have planned an auction, dinner and a movie to benefit the Nickerson family. It will take place on Saturday, February 25 at the Sams Valley Elementary School cafeteria (14235 Table Rock Rd, Central Point) from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
“The loss of Jimmy Nickerson has been felt across the area. Jimmy was well-known for his contagious positive attitude and motivating inspiration towards others. He will be greatly missed, event organizers said. “Our grocery manager, Paula Nickerson, can always be found with a smile on her face and kindness in her heart. She can brighten any room and make everyone feel welcome. This is our opportunity to show her how much she means to our rural community and give our love and support during her long road of healing and recovery.”
The price for a hotdog, dinner and a movie is $8 per person. The movie alone will be $3. There will also be popcorn, baked goods and raffle items.
© 2024 KOBI-TV NBC5. All rights reserved unless otherwise stated.