FLANAGAN - Amber Eichhorn has described this week as both the worst and the best in her life.

"They always say that the best of people comes out in a crisis situation, and I am just emotionally overwhelmed with this outpouring of help," she said. "It really makes you see the good in people."

Eichhorn and her husband Jay, 9-year-old daughter Hailey and 2-year-old son Owen, lost virtually everything they own in a house fire Monday night in Flanagan. No one was injured, but two cats died in the fire.

Eichhorn said it is believed that lint in the clothes dryer initially began the fire, which later spread into the attic of their two-story home at 412 S. Main St. The fire department still is investigating.

The family is currently staying with Amber Eichhorn's aunt, Pam Broad, rural Flanagan, while they look for a new home, but it seems like the entire village of Flanagan has come out to help them, she said.

"I'm very impressed by everything that has happened so far," said Betsy Ingold, who lives on the same street. "It's still in the early stages of getting everything put together but the help has been great."

Tracey Albrecht, who recently moved to Flanagan, cleaned out one of her garages to make room for the furniture donations they have already received, including a dining room table and chairs.

"It's nice down here (in Flanagan), and I feel like I would want someone to help me out," she said. "She (Amber) is just a very giving person."

The house was insured and claims adjusters are still inspecting the damage.

Schools and churches in the Flanagan area already have started collecting clothes, toys and other goods while other residents are doing what they can to pitch in.

Items being sought include baby items because Amber Eichhorn is expecting to have a baby in February.

Still needed are maternity clothes, clothing, household items, health and beauty products, furniture and dog food. As for toys, Ingold said that the children are fond of Thomas the Tank Engine and Webkinz.

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How to help

The Eichhorn family lost most of what they own in a house fire Monday in Flanagan.

Call Betsy Ingold at (815) 796-2278 or Tracey Albrecht at (815) 796-2835 for a list of items being sought after or to arrange a donation.

The State Bank of Flanagan has also set up a fund for the family. To make a donation, contact any branch, including those in Flanagan, Bloomington, Benson, Le Roy and El Paso.