Vermont family finds hope through community support after devastating flood

In Peacham, Vermont, the Mackenzie family faced a life-altering event when a flood devastated their home, leading to significant losses. During a terrifying storm last summer, they had to flee, leaving behind their belongings, which were swept away by the floodwaters. They have since been living temporarily in a friend's house while seeking to rebuild their lives. Despite the tragic circumstances and the destruction of their property, support from friends, family, and the community played a vital role in their recovery. Donations have helped the Mackenzies secure a new house just in time for Thanksgiving, reflecting the strong sense of community solidarity amid ongoing challenges. The flood affected many families in the region, with about 250 household buyout applications submitted due to the widespread destruction. The Mackenzie family applied for a buyout, hoping to remain in Peacham, yet rising housing costs made it difficult for them to stay in the area. John and Jenny Mackenzie, both educators, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the support they received, stating it meant a lot that their community was thinking of them during their hardships. Ultimately, the generous donations did not make them whole but provided hope and a new beginning. As they attempt to re-establish their lives following the flood crisis, they have been working through the complexities of the buyout process. This includes navigating the paperwork, which was partially lost during the flood, and dealing with the financial implications of purchasing a new home while awaiting the outcome of their buyout application. Jenny Mackenzie emphasized that their financial situation is precarious, indicating the challenges that still lie ahead. The couple recognized how difficult it was to accept help initially, but they learned to embrace kindness and community. This journey of recovery has opened their eyes to the importance of community support, which has buoyed them during this difficult time. The family’s resilience is evident as they face the reality of losing their home, which held 21 years of memories and significance, especially for their twin daughters. They have committed to creating a new home and future, demonstrating an admirable adaptation to their new circumstances. The Mackenzies aim to continue expressing their gratitude to those who assisted them and plan to extend their generosity to others in need in the future. Thus, while the past remains painful and filled with loss, there is a growing sense of hope among the Mackenzie family as they look forward to the support they have gained and a chance to start anew.