Dave & Ruth's Home Disaster Recovery

Hi, my name is Janine and I'm writing on behalf of my siblings to share what's going on. My parents, Dave & Ruth Johnson, could use love and support from their community in this time. (They are not asking for help. But loved ones have asked how to help, so I'm organizing this without asking them first. Whoops. I'll ask for forgiveness later :))

On December 27, my parents flew home from Seattle after spending Christmas together with our family. They walked in the door at 1:00 am, tired after traveling, to discover a pipe had burst in their attic. Ceiling collapsed, causing water and insulation to spray and fall into the kitchen, utility room, office, garage, and living room. The destruction is devastating.

If you know my parents, I'm guessing you've been blessed by their overwhelming generosity and care for others. They have probably fed you, housed you or someone you know, watched your dog, watched your kids, driven you to the airport at midnight, helped you move, taken you to the hospital, visited you at the nursing home, fixed something at your house, or brought you a meal. They spend nights on cots at church when the homeless organization needs somewhere to stay. They cared faithfully for Millie for 35 years, an elderly woman in the neighborhood with no family. They are the first to jump in and help when anyone needs it. Even when it is an inconvenience to them. It is who they are.

Right now, they have no heat or water. They will need to move out of the house while damaged walls, floors, ceilings, and belongings are removed and eventually repaired. They are staying in a hotel nearby, but we will need to find a more permanent place for them to stay during the rebuilding process.

The emotional burden is heavy. For now, we are hoping to lift their spirits by helping lift some of the financial burdens of this devastation. They do have insurance, but we know there will be damage and loss that won't be covered. Thank you for helping care for Dave and Ruth during this difficult time. We will share updates and reach out if there are other practical ways we can help them. They love you and are so grateful for the people in their lives.

With gratitude,

The Johnson kids