Benefit softball game helps family rebuild after house fire

The Losito Family Benefit Softball Game on Saturday, July 30, raised funds for a Kutztown area family after a fire destroyed their home.

Proceeds from the charity slow pitch softball game between the Lyons Senior Softball Team and WFMZ staff went to the Losito Family. The free admission event was held at Kutztown Park girls senior softball field. There was a raffle of 55 prizes.

The fundraiser will help Robert and Melissa “Missy” Losito rebuild after their Greenwich Township home was destroyed by a March 2 fire that has been classified as accidental. While the Losito family got out safely before firefighters arrived, the loss was estimated at $300,000.

After the fire, word quickly spread on social media to help the Losito family. Donations of needed items have been collected at events and local businesses. The Losito Family Benefit Facebook page was set up to help raise funds for the family, announcing benefit events, including the Losito Family Benefit featuring live music, a square dancing performance and food trucks at the Kutztown Rod and Gun Club Pavilion in May.

“The outpouring of love and support from the community has been overwhelming. We have always been on the giving end, helping others by donating our time through coaching soccer and softball on varies levels,” said Missy in a statement to media after the music benefit. “To be now on the receiving end of the generosity, is very humbling. We never realized so many people cared. We cannot thank our community, friends, and family for their love and support throughout this difficult time after losing everything.”

In her statement, Missy explained their home was her childhood home and a place she and her husband spent their life together as a couple for 20 years.

“It was where we started our family and the only place our boys knew as home,” said Missy. “It held our accomplishments and belongings as well as memories of our entire lives. To have everyone come together to help us to rebuild has been over the top and cannot be measured in just a simple thank you. We are so very blessed to have the support system we have.”

For more information about upcoming raising events, visit the Losito Family Benefit Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ The-Losito-Family-Benefit-108129015154419.

WFMZ’s Sam Marcinek eyes up a pitch, hoping for a hit at the Losito Family Benefit Softball Game on July 30. The charity game between the Lyons Senior Softball Team and WFMZ staff raised funds to help a Kutztown area family rebuild after a fire destroyed their home.

SUBMITTED PHOTO BY DENNIS KRUMANOCKER WFMZ’s Dan Moscaritolo joins the Losito Family prior to the charity game at Kutztown Park on July 30.

Keith Brintzenhoff “The Kid” slams a slow pitch to right field during the Losito Family Benefit Softball Game at Kutztown Park on July 30.

Lyons Senior Team batter Chris Ritter takes a good look at a pitch he hopes to connect with for a hit.

Kayde Losito throws the first pitch at the Lyons vs WFMZ at Kutztown Park Softball Field.

Lyons Senior Team batter Ken Ritter watches a hit go through the gap.

Dane Losito throws out second pitch at the Lyons vs WFMZ at Kutztown Park Softball Field.

Crowd watching at the Losito Family Benefit Softball Game at Kutztown Park on July 30.

WFMZ’s Dan Moscaritolo rifles a hit to center field.