INDIANAPOLIS -- Tough economic conditions are taking their toll on a group that helps Indiana fire victims get back on their feet.

The People's Burn Foundation gives those who have lost everything in a fire a lot of the necessities, such as blankets, cleaning supplies and toiletries, 6News' Jennifer Carmack reported.

The little things often create a big impact for those who are left with nothing, but shelves are bare and demand is greater than anticipated.

Plates and towels mark a new start for Karen Champagne, whose rental home in the 2200 block of Spann Avenue was set on fire while the family of seven slept last Friday.

"My youngest was in her bedroom, and her bed was actually started on fire," said Champagne.

The fire's fury left Champagne's family with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

"Whatever we didn't lose is damaged in smoke damage," she said.

Each item that the foundation's Extinguish the Need facility gives away comes with the hope that fire victims can begin a road to recovery.

"We provide families with a cleaning kit, a kitchen kit and a bath kit," said Justin Phillips, of the foundation.

PBF hopes it won't have to turn people away, but it doesn't have much to give. Donations are down and the number of fires affecting families is higher than normal.

Earlier this week, 11 families were displaced in an apartment fire, heightening the need even more.

PBF can only hope more donations come in so it can continue to offer a kind, helping hand to those desperate for assistance.

"When you have nothing, something is better than nothing, always," Champagne said.

Three more families are set to visit the Extinguish the Need facility next week, and there are bound to be more who will need help in the coming weeks and months.

More Info: People's Burn Foundation