NORFOLK, Neb. -- Grocery shoppers helped raise nearly $10,000 for a Pierce family affected by a fatal fire, company officials announced this week.

Hy-Vee officials announced that a total of $9,300 were raised, including customer contributions and a $3,000 donation by Hy-Vee's Norfolk locations.

Hy-Vee was one of several northeast Nebraska businesses to raise funds for the Clausen family after three children were killed in a fatal fire on the morning of January 29.

"I know Hy-Vee isn't the first to respond to these unfortunate circumstances, but wow – what a heartfelt experience it was to see our community come together to support a local family during such a tragedy," said Hy-Vee District Store Director Greg Rottinghaus. "I’m glad that the Norfolk Hy-Vee stores are able to provide a sense of relief during this difficult time.

Several local schools and organizations also sought to provide aid, raising money with "Blue Out" events in support of the Clausen family and the Pierce community.

The Hy-Vee fundraiser was held February 3-6.