Crystal Underground Recovery Fund

From 1983 until last week, my aunt and uncle, James and Elena Conaway have had their shop, Crystal Underground in Ellicott City where they create beautiful jewelry, prisms, and stunning displays. That’s 33 years of local business!  Last Friday, as Uncle Jimmie closed up the shop at 6 pm, the rain started. In the next 2 hours, 6 inches of rain fell in 2 hours causing a flood that ravaged downtown Ellicott City, Maryland, killing two people and destroying or damaging at least 25 buildings. 

As you can imagine, their shop was completely ravaged.  Without flood insurance, their inventory and equipment are at a total loss, not to mention the loss of sales for what will probably be one year, while Ellicott City works to rebuild after this tragedy. My family is humble. They don’t live off much. They don’t ask for anything. It seems the most humble are almost the most generous, and in this case they truly are But the reality is that they do have living expenses, a mortgage, taxes, etc. and I hope that by creating a fund for them, they will be able to live through this travesty.

The store is small but it is what supports my aunt and uncle and my two cousins Radha and Arjuna. My family needs your help. If you could find it in your hearts to spare anything you think you can afford, we would be forever grateful. If not, we certainly understand, but ask at a minimum you share their story with as many friends and family as you can. Thank you so much for your time.

Before photos: