A trust fund has been set up to help rebuild the landmark Marguerita Grill on Halls River Road in Homosassa.

Those who wish to help Tommy and Sammy Piliouras rebuild their former restaurant can visit the Homosassa branch of SunTrust Bank. Donations can also be made at any SunTrust location under the name of "Marguerita Grill Assistance Fund Trust." For information, call (352) 621-3989.

It has not yet been determined what caused the July 25 fire at the restaurant. A report from the State Fire Marshal's Office is expected on Tuesday as to the cause of the fire.

In the meantime, there has been help coming from many local area people, organizations and businesses to assist the approximately 60 employees put out of work by the fire. Colonel Frogs on U.S. 19 from 2 to 7 p.m. today (Sunday, Aug. 7) hosting a chicken barbecue at $5 per dinner to help the employees' families. Cash proceeds made will be divided among former Marguerita Grill employees.

A Homosassa food pantry has given out food bags, still another agency has donated school supplies for former employees whose families include children, the Homosassa Rotary club has raised several thousand dollars and former County Commissioner Gary Bartell and wife, Joanne, are helping by getting the money raised into the hands of the most needy.

The fire was reported to have started at about 6:30 a.m. on July 25, and the popular eatery was completely destroyed.

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