(MT. VERNON, IL) — A Mt. Vernon family lost everything Monday night, when a fire destroyed their home. Tim Chambers and his three girls were the only ones home when he smelled smoke. He told his daughters to get out and call for help. Tim and his wife Steph believe the fire started with a hot-water heater in the dining room closet. While the house appears to be a total loss, the family was able to salvage a few items. The official cause of the fire remains under investigation. In the meantime, friends started a Facebook page, Chamber’s Family Community Outreach, to help the family financially. They’re also in need of mattresses, blankets, sheets and coats. They will be staying in Benton with family until they figure out what to do next. The Mt. Vernon Fire Department and Jefferson County Fire Protection District responded to the scene.