Fundraisers started for businesses destroyed in Slaton fire

GoFundMe campaigns have been started for two Slaton businesses that were destroyed in a fire this weekend as investigators are still trying to determine what started the blaze.

In a GoFundMe started by Slaton Bakery owner Chad Wilson, Wilson said Klemke's Sausage Haus and Antique Shop has been a critical part of the community and West Texas, and asked the public to help the family.

"They serve up the best meats around and have probably processed many of your game animals from memorable hunts," said Wilson. "Let's give back to this family that has given so much for our communities. They need our help, spiritually, mentally and financially."

For the Slaton Family Medical Clinic campaign, the GoFundMe page states that the clinic does have insurance, but it would be some time before the owners can collect it which would put employees in a bind.

"While the clinic does have some insurance, it will be awhile before it kicks in pending investigations, leaving four dedicated employees without paychecks. We are raising some money to help cover the employee's salaries in the meantime," reads a statement on the page.

The fundraisers can be accessed via the Slaton Bakery's Facebook page, www.facebook.com/slatonbakery/.

Crews from 22 agencies, organizations and private businesses were called to provide aid in extinguishing the Saturday morning blaze. Firefighters from the Slaton Fire Department first arrived on scene at 2:50 a.m. and the fire was contained to the initial structures involved at 9:30 a.m., stopping flames from reaching the west side of Slaton Square, according to the Lubbock County office of emergency management. The Slaton Bakery reported heavy smoke damage from the blaze and is closed for business until further notice. In total, about 100 first responders and others responded to the scene.

Texas State Fire Marshals are still investigating to determine the cause of the fire.

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