ATLANTA — Armed with a rake, Harry Douglas spent his Friday cleaning up debris left behind by a fire that gutted the Douglas Brothers Foundation office and kitchen on Thanksgiving Day. His wife, Stephanie, joined him in this arduous task to restore this essential hub of the community.
“I cried yesterday,” Harry recalled. “When I arrived and saw the building, I was informed that I could not enter, and tears flowed. It seemed like a lifetime of work had gone up in smoke. »
The Douglas Brothers Foundation serves Clayton County, striving to feed families and support children in metro Atlanta. The organization is named in honor of their sons: Harry Douglas, a former Atlanta Falcon, and Toney Douglas, a former NBA player, both proud graduates of Jonesboro High School.
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The fire broke out Thursday afternoon during the Douglas family’s Thanksgiving celebration. Receiving an alarming call, the family rushed to the duplex that houses the foundation, only to discover that Clayton County firefighters were already on the scene.
Reports indicate the fire likely started at the rear of the building, although the exact cause remains under investigation.
“It’s discouraging, but my wife and I are staying positive because we are resilient people,” Harry said. “We believe in perseverance. Nothing is going to stop us. »
The Douglas family understands the crucial role their foundation plays in the community. Just this past weekend, they provided hot meals to over 350 people in their parking lot. Now, they’re gearing up for their annual holiday festival in less than a month, an event that will bring even more meals and gifts to those in need.
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“At present, we are preparing bags for 220 children, and we promise that each child will receive a gift bag,” he said with determination.
Fortunately, the toys for the Christmas festival were kept in a separate location, but the damage suffered will hamper the foundation’s continued efforts.
“I serve a great God, and I have faith that we will find a way to keep our mission alive,” he added with conviction.
As the Douglas Brothers Foundation continues its recovery process, it welcomes support from the community. Those wishing to help can visit the foundation’s website for more information. Click here to help.
