Volunteers Help Sort Cards for Girl who Lost Family in Fire

A little girl from New York, who lost her family in a fire that was intentionally set, captured the hearts of millions after her story went viral on social media during the holidays.

Safyre Terry had one wish for Christmas: to receive cards from around the world. That wish came true in a big way! Over one million cards were sent to her and they keep coming. She even got cards from Katy Petty and the Obama family.

Safyre lost her father and three siblings in a house fire caused by arson. The young girl was found in the debris next to her dad, who used his body to shield her from the flames. Safyre suffered severe burns and in the months following the fire she lost her right hand and left foot.

She now lives with her aunt, Liz Dodler. Her aunt purchased her a Christmas tree to hang cards on and took to Facebook to share Safyre's wish. She has received cards from every state in the U.S., Dubai, Australia, France, Brazil and many other places!.

Since the response has been so amazing, it’s physical impossible for Safyre to open all of her cards. To help with that, “Safyre’s Angels” was created. People have set up shop inside a warehouse in Rotterdam, New York to give her a hand with opening up her mail.

“We’ll need volunteers daily for the next several weeks. We operate starting at 10 a.m. each day 7 days a week. On weekdays we plan to be here until around 8 or 9 p.m. and on weekends we usually open mail until 4 or 5 p.m. Thank you to each and every person who has supported Safyre,” the group said on Facebook.

A family member said a nearby ski lodge had invited them to store and open letters there, but they quickly ran out of space. That’s when a local warehouse donated its space.

“The Steele Riders MC and ACCFCB.org have jumped right in to help organize a plan of action and continue every day to commit their time to Safyre. Toys For Tots, has given their time and vehicles to help transport and transition.”

Safyre, who recently had surgery in Boston, is doing well and had an incredible Christmas. Learn more about Safyre's Angels here and check out some of the amazing cards she has received! 

Cards can be sent to:

Safyre's YouCaring page: https://www.youcaring.com/mike-and-liz-dolder-and-family-425939#.VenWRufXalJ.facebook