DEMOPOLIS &8212; The Owens family is recovering with help from community organizations and donors following a fire that claimed their East Jackson Street home last week.

In an effort to assist the family, New Morning Star Baptist Church in Demopolis will host a benefit program at 7 p.m. on Saturday, at which donations will be accepted. The church is located on the corner of Ash and Jefferson Streets and the community is invited to attend and support the Owens family.

The fire destroyed a neighboring house along with the house of John and Eliza Owens and their six grandchildren as well as damaged another house, leaving the family homeless.

The family was asleep on July 12 when a knock at the door alerted them to a fire that had spread to their home.

Beverly Owens, John Owens&8217;s sister-in-law said the family has already received support from the community, but there is still a need for some items.

The family relocated and is in need of dressers and chests to hold clothing, a chair and additional clothing items.

The 16-year-old grandson is Ravee Owens, who was recently featured in The Times for his efforts in rescuing a young boy at the Demopolis City Landing. Beverly Owens said Ravee is in need of clothing, pants size 32/34, shirt size large and shoes size 12. The granddaughter needs clothing size 14 to 16 girls and shoes size 8.

Items may be taken to the Owens new residence at 802 Arcola Road in Demopolis.

Fire officials said Friday there have been no reports made on the cause of the fire. The Owens family was evacuated and no injuries were sustained the night of the fire at their home. Their home and the house at 410 S. Chestnut Street, which was the former home of the late Mamie Foster of Demopolis, sustained devastating damage. Also the siding on the house at 408 S. Chestnut Street sustained minor damage, but firefighters were able to control the blaze.

Willie Clayton, who was at the scene that night, said he owned the house at 410 S. Chestnut Street and no one was living in the house at the time.

If you would like to find out more about how to help, please contact Beverly Owens at 334-289-8587.