Rt. 9 through Hillsboro is closed to traffic Tuesday morning as emergency crews battle a house fire.

— Photo by Claudia Forbes

Hillsboro Rallies to Aid Family after Fire Even as fire crews worked to extinguish flames ripping through the historic former church building on Tuesday morning, town of Hillsboro leaders already were at work to help the Hawkins family who live there.

The fire at the home, located on the southside of Rt. 9 at the center of town, was reported at approximately 9:15 a.m. Dec. 27. Crews remained at the scene for more than six hours, with the closed to traffic during that period.

The residents, Don and Cindy Hawkins safely evacuated, along with their pets.

The Hillsboro Preservation Foundation quickly established a fundraiser through its Neighbors in Need program to assist the family with emergency expenses. Within hours, the campaign had raised more than $3,000. Contribute to the Don and Cindy Fire Recovery Fund at gofundme.com.