Drew Benefit Packs the Hall

Nearly 150 community members filled up on spaghetti, enjoyed music by Tim Tanberg and bid on auction items to raise money for Seeley Lake resident Kerry Drew. Drew lost everything he owned in a house fire Sept. 23. He and his family were overwhelmed by all the support they received from the community. The raised more than $3,000 at the event.

Drew's daughter Danielle Posthumus organized the event with the help of several family members and friends. She had never organized anything like this before and said she did not know what to expect. As donations kept coming through the door for the auctions and plates were filled for nearly 150 attendees, Posthumous considered it a success.

Karen Ayers, Hope Lewis and Posthumus' sister Sarah Doughty worked the kitchen while Drew's grandsons Aiden and Sam along with Sam Ayers worked a lemonade stand for 25 cents per cup raising $33.50. While there was still lemonade left over at the end of the night, the only food left from dinner was a few rolls.

Following dinner and music, Pastor Erik Iverson turned auctioneer for the dessert auction and many people bid on the silent auction items. Renita Ruth won the 50/50 drawing and donated her share of nearly $150 back to Drew.

"The turnout was a lot better than I expected seeing how it was opening hunting day and there was a Griz game," said Posthumus. "We are overwhelmed with everyone who showed up. My dad has always donated to other benefits. It's nice to see how much the community cares about him."

A man of few words, Drew said, "I'm just amazed at all the people."

"Thank you to all of those that helped whether it was setting up, working in the kitchen, taking money at the door for dinner, auctioning off the amazing desserts or helping clean up," said Posthumous. "Thank you to those who donated something for the benefit. I also want to thank everyone that came to the benefit to support my dad."

Donations are still being accepted for Drew. Checks can be made out to Kerry Drew Benefit and dropped off or mailed to Citizens Alliance Bank, PO Box 720, Seeley Lake, MT 59868. There is also a GoFundMe site for Kerry Drew Fire Recovery Fund. Visit https://www.gofundme.com/jz4yaxqk