Taylor and Earl Hughes said they didn't think thered be any presents this year.
"I thought we were not going to have Christmas," said Hughes.
Early Christmas Eve, their Vineland home went up in flames.
After battling blazes as a Vineland volunteer firefighter for 17 years, Craig Hughes saved his own family Sunday from their burning house. Everything else, including all their Christmas gifts, was destroyed.
"I don't care who you are, you're a firefighter, you're whatever, it can happen to you," said Hughes.
Shortly after the fire, donations of toys, clothing, and cash began pouring in from the community, thanks in part to efforts by fellow Vineland firefighters.
"He's one of us and he's always looked out for the other guy. He's always worked to save other people's property, so we've got to help him," said William Rossi, President of the Vineland Fire Company Co. 1.
Since the fire, the Hughes's have been splitting their time between Craig's stepfather's house and a local motel.
They'll be able to extend their stay at the motel, beyond what the Red Cross can provide, thanks to $4,000 donated by the community so far.
If you want to help, donations can be mailed to the Vineland Fire Department, Company One.
Attention Craig Hughes Fund PO Box 922Vineland, N.J. 08362
