Family recovers after fire

COEUR d'ALENE - When her apartment in the 4200 block of Crown Avenue burned down on Feb. 28, Corie McNearney said she was only able to get the most important things in the world to her out - her four children.

But the single mother lost everything else in the blaze.

"It's been devastating," McNearney said. "But each day it's getting better."

McNearney added that her children, two girls and two boys ranging in ages from 2 months to 12 years, are having a difficult time understanding what took place and why they can't return home.

However, like McNearney said, each day is getting better and on Wednesday the woman relocated to a new apartment.

"The last time I talked to her, she was so ecstatic about the apartment," said Gail Studer, McNearney's aunt.

Studer, along with other friends and family members, have surrounded McNearney and her children in the wake of the fire by donating much-needed clothing. 

"It's opened my eyes to see how many caring and loving people are out there," McNearney said. "It's put me in awe."

If anyone is interested in donating clothing or household items to the McNearney family, Studer said they can contact Tracy at (208) 660-9088 if they are in the Coeur d'Alene or Post Falls area, or Sherry at (208) 245-4718 if they are in the St. Maries area.

A McNearney Fire Benefit Fund has also been opened through US Bank. Donations can be made at any branch.