For most of us, the fear of losing everything to a disaster is just a nightmare.  For Heliodoro, his wife Florencia and daughter Wendy Rivera, this became a painful reality on August 16th as the Blue Cut fire engulfed thousands of acres in Cajon Pass.  Heliodoro and Florencia lost their home of 26 years, which is also where they worked, along with their livestock and pets.  Years of photographs and mementos from their beautiful daughters Letty and Wendy were also lost in an instant.  Wendy, who is in school, also lost all her school supplies and belongings.  All they could save were a dog, their cars, important documents and the clothes on their back.

It is hard to even begin to imagine the sense of helplessness Heliodoro and Florencia may be feeling after losing their family home, workplace and hard-earned livelihood. While we may not be able to replace all that was lost nor the memories built in their home, we can help them on their road to recovery. 

As such, I am appealing to everyone’s generous hearts to please prayerfully consider giving to this fund, all of which will be given to Heliodoro and Florencia to buy basic necessities such as clothes, medication and household essentials.  I was not quite sure what goal would be appropriate or reasonable but do believe that when we give with intent, sky is the limit.

On behalf of Heliodoro, Florencia, Wendy, Letty and her husband (our good friend) Michael Chavez, I thank you for keeping them in your thoughts and prayers – and for thoughtfully sharing your blessings through this fund.  May you be richly rewarded a hundredfold.

Sincerely,
Lourdes Nery
Friend of Michael and Letty (daughter of Heliodoro & Florencia Rivera)