Fundraisers organized after Topsfield family loses home, pets in fire

Local News

Adam Harlor, his wife Kathy, and their three sons Justin, Gavin, and Nolan all lost their home and their dog and two cats.

By Molly Farrar

December 22, 2024 | 5:54 PM

1 minute to read

After a fire destroyed the home of a North Shore football coach and killed the family’s pets, the community has raised thousands to support the Topsfield family amid the holiday season.

The Topsfield Fire Department responded to reports of a fire at 10 Canterbury Hill Road Saturday morning around 11:13 a.m. Crews said they responded within four minutes, and residents were able to escape the flames uninjured. 

However, a family dog and two cats were killed, crews said. Adam Harlor, his wife, Kathy, and their three sons all lost their home, according to fundraisers.

Adam volunteers as a football coach and serves as a board member for Masconomet Youth Football, serving Topsfield, Middleton, and Boxford.

“Our thoughts are with the family during this very difficult time,” the fire department said on Facebook.

The Topsfield Fire Department shared a GoFundMe fundraiser, which was set up by family friends. Hundreds of people have already donated nearly $80,000 as of Sunday evening around 5 p.m.

“Anyone that knows The Harlor’s knows they are the kindest, most generous family. Let’s do what we can to support them,” the fundraiser said.

Masco Youth Football will host a monetary donation and gift card drive for the family on Monday, Dec. 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Masconomet Field House, the fire department shared in a separate Facebook post. 

Pat the Patriot, from the New England Patriots, will show up to support the family, and the organization will have hot chocolate and treats for participants, the flyer said.

“The family is safe, but they lost their dog and two cats,” the flyer said. “Now, it’s our turn to give back to them.”