Delaware rallies around Wilmington family in need, raises more than $5,500

Terrance Drew had not planned on doing much for Father's Day.

As the sole provider for his family since his wife's sudden death in March, the holiday was likely to be spent barbecuing with his children and some family at their home in Wilmington.

Never did Terrance Drew expect that a brand new washer and dryer would be delivered that same day.

"That was so great, like a big, total blessing," Terrance Drew said. "I was getting backed up on laundry and the clothes were piling up. ... It came at the perfect time."

It's one of the many ways Delawareans have given back to the family in need since The News Journal published their story more than two weeks ago. The Drew's struggle to get back on their feet and move forward in the wake of the deaths of Carolyn Drew and their unborn daughter, Cadence, touched hearts throughout the state and prompted swift response.

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In the first 24 hours, a GoFundMe set up to help the family pay for the burial for both Carolyn and Cadence raised more than $1,000, in addition to the more than $4,800 already donated online and used for the funeral.

Since then, donations have climbed on the account to more than $10,000 – meaning Delawareans have given nearly $5,500, in addition to other donations provided directly to the family.

"I pray things get better for your family," one woman wrote on the GoFundMe page. "Your story has truly touched me. I cannot imagine what you and your children are going through but I do pray God sees you through it."

Others left well wishes, prayers and photos for the family.

"I was in tears reading your story and I could not imagine the pain you & your children are going through," another woman wrote. "You all are in my prayers, Bless up."

In addition to the dozens of donations online, ranging in size from $10 to $500, The News Journal also received more than two dozen phone calls and emails with requests on how to help the Drews.

Some have delivered toys directly and many others are looking to get churches and community organizations connected with the family of five.

Morgan Spurrier, the woman who created the GoFundMe and got to know the family through the children's daycare, has also received personal messages about how the surrounding community can help.  

"It's just been extremely beautiful and humbling to see the community come around the Drews," Spurrier said. 

They remain in need of everyday household items, dressers for the children, and other necessities. Now, Spurrier is working with her church and other interested organizations to determine what support for the Drews may look like going forward.

All of these efforts have provided the Drews with some comfort in this time of need.

"There are more people out there than I thought that cared about some people," Drew said Monday. "It's helping me and the kids, and it takes some of the pain away. It won't take all of it but it's taking some."

How to help

Donations for the Drew family can be made online at the family's GoFundMe page, "Drew Children Support Fund." 

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Contact Brittany Horn at (302) 324-2771 or bhorn@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter at @brittanyhorn.