GUEYDAN, La. (KLFY) — A barbecue benefit was held at Sarah’s Corner Grill in Gueydan for Monica Gums and her nine-year-old daughter. Gums and her daughter lost their home to a fire two days before Christmas.

“To even watch my community come together and help me, like, I’ve been a giver, so me accepting love, it’s overwhelming,” said Gums.

Gums said the prices for the plates were $12 and the event was a success, as 400 people bought a plate lunch.

The food consisted of baked beans, rice dressing, potato salad and the choice of chicken or pork steak. The money collected towards the plates went to Monica Gums and her nine-year-old daughter to help them rebuild their home.

The event was organized by a friend of the family, James Guidry. Since the fire in December, Gums and her nine-year-old daughter have been staying in their business shop next door from where their home was.

“As far as my child, it gets us one step closer to rebuilding our home, so just the appreciation and love from all the community, it’s heartwarming, and I’m at a loss for words,” said Gums.

Gums, who also worked for the benefit, said while the efforts to rebuild their home won’t happen overnight, she is forever thankful to the community for giving them the chance to start over.

“Special thanks from me and my child for everybody that came out and help and support it, the love and generosity, it was just major gratitude and I’m so thankful,” said Gums.

A GoFundMe has also been set up by James Guidry to help Monica Gums and her daughter, as they continue to get back on their feet.

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