Community rallies with raffles, events to support Versailles family affected by pool room fire

VERSAILLES, Ky. — Less than a month after a fire destroyed Wilson’s Pool Room and the apartments above it in downtown Versailles, the Wilson family says it is hopeful to reopen and grateful for the support of the Woodford County community.

Jaquie and Ben Wilson, owners of the pool room, said community members have continued to rally around them since the fire.

“And the community has helped wonders and truly thank god for living in such a small community,” the Wilsons said.

Raffle raises more than $33,000

Greg Dotson, a longtime friend of the Wilsons, organized a raffle in July — in addition to his yearly Christmas raffle — to raise money for the Woodford Foundation, which has been helping support the family. The raffle raised more than $33,000.

“I’m going to start crying… well I always say every year with the Christmas Charity raffle, I always say that I can’t do a lot. I can help a little, but when you can draw people together, and the goodness of people’s hearts comes together, it is amazing the things you can do as a group,” Dotson said.

Upcoming fundraising events

Additional opportunities to support the Wilsons remain scheduled throughout Woodford County, including a car show, a concert, and a farmers market fundraising event.

• Farmers Market Fundraiser: Millville Community Market, Aug. 9, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Benefit Concert: The District in Versailles, Aug. 22, 4 p.m.