Decatur couple finds new home after house burned down before Christmas

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — After a kitchen fire destroyed their home in December, Calvin Carson and Tenika Carson Smith moved into their new home after an outpouring of community support.

On Dec. 9, Calvin and Tenika's home on East Olive Street was engulfed in a blaze caused by grease on the stove that had been left unattended. Calvin explained that he accidentally left grease on the stove after getting an urgent call.

The couple says Northeast Community Fund, Red Cross, Dove Inc. and the team at McAllister's Deli helped to pay for Tenika and Calvin's hotel room while they waited to find their home. They said State Rep. Sue Scherer provided support. Their parish, Antioch Baptist Church, also helped them get back on their feet. They also wanted to extend thanks to the Walker family, who helped them find their new home. They also received nearly $7,000 on a GoFundMe, as well as donated furniture from neighbors and community members.

They said they were beyond grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. Calvin called everyone who helped in any way "God's angels."

"When you start seeing God's angels work, it gives you a better feeling over what just happened," he said.

Now, the couple is just working on moving into their new home, feeling appreciative for all they have gotten through the kindness of others.

"Even through the pain, God is good," Calvin said.

"There's always that little light at the end of the tunnel. And we found it." Tenika added.

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