The community continues to rally behind beloved Franklin County residents Robert and Patricia Hoffman, who lost everything when their home caught fire on April 2. In their honor, $20 photo sessions will be held on Saturday, June 24, at Brookville Town Park. All proceeds from the photo sessions will go towards rebuilding the Hoffman's home.

The Hoffmans are well-known for being wonderful people who have spent their lives giving to others. They are long-time Franklin County Community School Corporation bus drivers and have dedicated their time and money to taking in and supporting foster kids. Over the years, beyond their own children, they have fostered 51 children and adopted six. 

Through their kind and thoughtful actions, the Hoffmans have impacted not only the children they took into their home as their own but also every community member who knew them, including Cindy Bright. Bright provides transportation to the WATCH center in Brookville for the Hoffmans' daughter Alizabeth who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome and has grown to adore her. Bright also owns "Captured by Cindy" photography and wanted to help the family. So, she came up with the idea to hold a "photo fundraiser" to support the Hoffmans.  

Amanda Thompson-Hogeback became the Hoffmans' neighbor in 2012. Hogeback's daughter became friends with the Hoffmans' foster daughter and attended church with them. Hogeback explained she was one of the first people on the scene when the fire broke out, and like Bright, she also had a strong desire to help her neighbors in their time of need stating, "they are good people."

"The day of the fire, I was one of the first people out there. It was devastating; very difficult to see happen," Hogeback said. "I was heartbroken for them. Honestly, God has put it on my heart to help them. We are supposed to carry each other's burdens. I truly have."

So when Bright called Hogeback and told her about her idea to hold a photo fundraiser, she couldn't wait to help. Others jumped in to help organize the event. Joe Randolph of JR Photography also offered his services, and the idea came to fruition. 

Those who would like to support the Hoffmans are invited to come to Brookville Town Park and have their photo taken. The volunteers will be stationed at the park entrance off River Rd for the sessions. 

"The cost is $20. You get four photos emailed directly to you or a cd mailed to your address," Hogeback explained. "There is no copyright, and you can have the photos printed anywhere. So bring your families, kids, grandkids, even your fur babies (dogs must be on a leash) to get your picture taken."

Also, on Saturday, Third Place in Brookville will open at 3 p.m. and will donate 10 percent of all sales from 3 to 5 30 p.m. to anyone who tells them they are there for the Hoffman family. To make a direct donation visit https://gofund.me/82534d87 or visit any FCN Bank location under Hoffman Benefit.
"They are both (Hoffmans) 78," Hogeback said. "I just hope to raise enough money that they are not left in debt."

Pictured is Robert and Pat with their daughter Alizabeth.