A Saskatoon woman is helping to organize a fundraiser for a local family after a house fire earlier this week in the city’s west end killed a family dog.

Kiera Moore, who has known the homeowner, Doreen Thatcher, since high school when they both used to work at a donut-coffee shop, said she decided to help out because “that’s when friends need you the most.”

“Having everything taken away from you is tough,” said Moore.

On Wednesday, emergency crews responded to a house fire in 300 block of Avenue J. When firefighters arrived on scene, heavy smoke could be seen coming from the basement.

Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the blaze and evacuate all six residents. Their family dog, a Chihuahua, died in the fire.

Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire but say the damage is estimated at $150,000.

Moore said in addition to accepting donations, items such as furniture, toiletries, back-to-school supplies, and clothing for Thatcher’s five kids -- ages four, five, seven, 13 and 17 -- are also being accepted.

So far, Moore said the response to the fundraiser has been incredible.

“The community has reached out and helped amazingly,” said Moore. “I have people from towns as far away as Herbert and Biggar coming into the city and donate things.”

Donations will be accepted until August 30 and can be dropped off at two locations: 138 East Hampton Blvd. and 142 Staigh Cres.