TROY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) An outpouring of community support is helping a local family cope with an unthinkable loss, as a fundraiser created in the wake of a fatal house fire continues to gain momentum.

As of Thursday afternoon, a GoFundMe established for the Jalava family had raised more than $14,000 toward its $24,000 goal. The fundraiser was organized by a close family friend, who described the pair as more like sisters than friends, in an effort to ease the financial burden following the tragedy.

The campaign comes after a devastating early-morning fire Tuesday at a home on Morse Street claimed the lives of 56-year-old Benjamin P. Jalava and his 24-year-old daughter, Madalyn K. Jalava.

Emergency crews were called to the home shortly before 2 a.m. after reports of a chimney fire that quickly spread. Firefighters arriving on scene encountered heavy flames and rescued two occupants, who were transported to area hospitals. Benjamin Jalava later died in Keene, while Madalyn Jalava succumbed to her injuries after being taken to a Boston hospital.

In a message shared through the fundraiser, a sibling described the emotional toll of losing two of the most important people in her life in a matter of hours, remembering her father as a best friend and her sister as a lifelong companion.

Funds raised will go toward funeral and burial expenses, with organizers emphasizing the importance of honoring both victims without adding further stress to the grieving family.

The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing. Officials have said they do not currently believe the incident is suspicious.

Community members continue to share the fundraiser and offer support as the family navigates the days ahead.