Bouquet: We in the Upper Peninsula know how to rally around our own in times of need. That’s been on full display this past week after the Gendron family of Norway lost almost everything in a house fire July 4.

The family of five was not only looking to celebrate the Independence Day holiday but the birthday of a special needs daughter. Thankfully all — even pets — were able to get out of the burning home uninjured. They took little, however, with them “but the clothes on their backs, they don’t even have their keys in their vehicles … and unfortunately, no renters insurance,” Megan Vassar posted in setting up a GoFundMe effort, “Gendron Family Needs Help After Fire Tragedy.”

GoFundMe, of course, has a number of worthy causes vying for attention, so there’s no guarantee an appeal will achieve what’s being sought. This effort’s $18,000 goal, while relatively modest compared with some of the other drives, was still sizable.

Yet as of Friday afternoon, it had drawn 245 donations and reached $17,645, 98% of its target. While a few were $250 to $500, most of the contributions fell into the $50 and $100 range, with a scattering of $10s and $20s. It was clear people were moved to try to help, even if they couldn’t spare much.

An account also has been set up at the Northern Interstate Bank for those who prefer to donate locally.

The effort will continue with a fundraising event from 2 to 8 p.m. today at the Thirsty Whale, 825 U.S. 2 in Norway, which Vassar owns. This rain-or-shine event will have live music starting at 5 p.m., bounce houses for the kids and yard games, including axe throwing.

The Indian Taco Truck will be on site serving its full menu and the Thirsty Whale will be grilling burgers.

And they will have raffles — many raffles. Vassar estimates they had about 300 items given for the event, enough to put together 60 gift baskets. Tons of gift cards for things such as hotel stays. A couple of kayaks, Green Bay Packers tickets. Showing how far the news had gone, someone from the Milwaukee area sent snowmobile helmets and jackets, Vassar said.

“I think it’s amazing,” Vassar said Friday, “how great everyone has come together.”

All raffle drawings will take place at 8 p.m. and people must be present to win, Vassar said.

If the Thirsty Whale parking area fills as anticipated, those attending can park at nearby Carquest Auto Parts or Chenier’s Greenhouse.

While the fundraiser is slated to end at 8 p.m., Thirsty Whale will remain open and serving afterwards, Vassar said. Those attending can cap off the evening by watching the city fireworks display that got postponed when the Norway Volunteer Fire Department had to respond to the July 4 house fire.

It’ll give the community a fitting way to celebrate the efforts of all who contributed money or otherwise to getting the Gendron family through this difficult time.

“They’re very grateful,” Vassar said, “for everyone’s help.”