Jo-Jo’s Holds Fundraiser for Fire Victims

On Tuesday night, hundreds of people attended a fundraiser at Jo-Jo’s Ice Cream on New Falls Road in the Levittown section of Falls Township to help a family who lost their home in a March 17 fire.

Madison Kerner, who lost grandfather Peter Kerner in the fast-moving blaze, organized the event.

“I decided I wanted to put together a fundraiser to help [my family members] get back on their feet,” she said.

The Foster Road trailer was occupied by two of Peter Kerner’s adult children and eight of their kids, ranging from 1 to 14 years old, Madison Kerner said.

Jo-Jo’s owner Debbi Kalbach said she was donating 20 percent of the chilly night’s profits to the family. A raffle was also held to raise money.

A portion of the money raised will also go toward helping the woman who owns an adjacent trailer that was damage by the fire, Madison Kerner said.

Some attendees brought clothing and other items to help the family.

Kathie Piell, Peter Kerner’s sister, said, “To see friends, family out here supporting us is just heartwarming.”

As customers donned coats and ate their frozen treats, DJ Jeff Weiman provided a mix of modern tunes for all to enjoy.

“Everybody came out when we needed it,” Piell said. “That means a lot.”

Related:

• Obituary: Peter J. Kerner III, 62
• Fire Victim ID’ed; Dog Needs Help
• 1 Dead, 1 Injured in Falls Mobile Home Fire