By Justin Felder - bio | email
LAKE CITY, SC (WMBF) – On October 20th, Jarvis Moore's family awoke to the smell of smoke. The family was fortunate to get out of the house before anyone was hurt, but their house and many of their possessions were not as lucky.
"Lost pretty much everything in the front of their house," said Lake City head football coach Justin Gentry. "What wasn't damaged by the fire was damaged by the water and smoke."
The community was quick to rally behind Moore and his family.
"I never knew that many people cared about me like that," said Moore, a junior defensive lineman on Lake City's football team.
By noon that day, Gentry said donations were pouring in.
"It just shows this town right here is caring and loving," said Moore.
Dealing with the fire was understandably difficult for Moore. Initially he had trouble focusing back on football, but that problem didn't last long.
"At first it was very difficult because I was thinking about things at home, but the team let me know they're my family, too," said Moore.
Lake City's football team helped prop Moore up in his time of need; but his example and strength during hard times now serves as an example for them.
"Just to watch him turn into a model student and a model football player, then this situation came about, how he's handled it and helped take care of his family, his younger sisters... words just can't describe it," said Gentry.
Ultimately, it's a happy ending to a hard story. The Red Cross helped Moore and his family into other housing and his Panthers are still alive in the Class 3A playoffs. After that difficult situation, Moore has a simple message for all those who helped him along the way.
"I just wanted to take the time now to say thanks for that effort they put in for me and my family," said Moore.
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