Welch Holds Fundraiser For Two Missing Girls

Saturday, February 19th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The families of two missing Welch, Oklahoma girls held a fundraiser Saturday, hoping to raise money for a reward a reward they hope brings them information about Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman.

The big line outside the Welch community center wasn't for the food and entertainment. The wait to get inside was nothing compared to the two month long wait for the safe return of two missing teenage girls.

Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman disappeared in December... Ashley's parents were found shot to death in their burned home. The car's were still there along with Lauria's purse. Money talks, so folks in this community hope the money raised from this benefit will lure someone to step forward with some information.

"A lot of people say money makes a difference, it shouldn't but it does," says Lorene Bible.

Residents in Welch, Vinita and the surrounding area have already raised 6,000 dollars for the reward. Family members hope the benefit more than doubles the pot. And they were well on their way, as people scrambled to make more room.

The fire department spent a day cooking chili. The chili ran out so some of the firefighters ran for more food and the helpers started cooking because the support kept pouring in.

"This is their way of showing their love and appreciate of the family that they care and want to bring the girls home," Lauria's cousin.

And that's why there was still a line outside three hours after the doors opened. The families haven't counted all the money raised Saturday, but, at last count they were at $30,000.

If the money is not needed for a reward, it will be used for scholarships in the girls' names.