Loni and Matthew are newly engaged and recently took a huge, hopeful step forward by purchasing their first home together—something they worked incredibly hard to achieve. Loni has raised three children on her own while climbing the ranks to become a supervisor, and Matthew has steadily worked his way up the corporate ladder. They are hardworking, dedicated, and anything but lazy. They did everything right—and yet, they’ve been hit with an overwhelming string of bad luck.

During the very first week after moving in, the entire basement flooded from the ground up. The inspection cannot include the pipes under the house. They soon learned the cause was a severely corroded underground copper pipe—damage not covered by their home warranty. As a result, they were told they cannot use their plumbing at all until it’s repaired. The estimated cost is devastating: nearly $30,000.

As if that weren’t enough, the very next day they received a separate notice confirming that another pipe on the property is made of lead and requires immediate replacement. With no clear end in sight, and after already using their savings to purchase the home, they’re left with very few options despite working as much as they possibly can.

For Loni, this is especially painful—she is already a survivor of a house fire, and the trauma of severe home damage again, this time caused by water, has been overwhelming.

I’m creating this fundraiser without even speaking to them because sometimes help needs to come before pride has a chance to step in. If it fits your heart and your means, I’m asking—on behalf of their family, their community, and even strangers who believe in helping others—that you consider donating. Any amount, large or small, would mean more than words can express.

Thank you for taking the time to read their story and for any kindness you’re able to share