Hi everyone, my name is Casey. Last night on Halloween, my boyfriend and his family were left devastated after the home they have lived in for the past three decades was burned down. The house and all their belongings are replaceable, and we are so thankful everyone, including their fur babies, made it out of the house to safety. Unfortunately, the fire was just the beginning of the long road the family now faces in search of a new home and replacing all of their belongings. The financial burden of this fire is leaving us no choice but to ask the community for help.

Beth and George have been long-term residents of New Gretna for the last 30+ years. They brought up all three of their children in the same home they watched flames consume. George Cook worked hard in construction his entire adult life to support his family of 5 up until his recent retirement. Due to the intensity of physical labor George’s body has endured his entire working life, he now faces mobility limitations and has been on a long road of medical complications and surgeries. George is no longer physically capable of working and is now devoting his time to his wife and children.

Beth Cook has devoted her life to raising her three children: Harry, Jonathan, and Brianna. In 1990, Beth’s oldest son Harry was born, changing her life in the most magical ways. Harry was diagnosed with Edward’s syndrome, which is a rare but serious genetic condition affecting 1 in 5-6,000 live births each year. Over 90% of infants born with Edward’s syndrome will not survive past their first birthday. Harry has defied all the odds imaginable and has just celebrated his 35th birthday!!

In 2002, George and Beth had their last son, Jonathan. Jon is now 23 and has followed in his father's footsteps, paving roads for a living. He works hard to support his family and is currently in the process of purchasing our first home to create a family of our own. Ever since I met Jonathan and his family at the age of 12, they have been the most welcoming, giving, and loving people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.

11 years after Jon was born, Beth and George had the surprise of a lifetime when they found out Beth would finally get the daughter she’s always prayed for. In 2013, they welcomed Brianna Cook into the world to complete their family. Brianna is currently in grade school and will be going to middle school next year! Brianna has always loved Lilo & Stitch because she learned ohana means family and Brianna loves her family. Luckily, Brianna was at school when the fire occurred and didn’t have to witness any of the traumatic events that unfolded that day.

With the devastating loss this family has suffered and the financial burden this tragedy has caused, we are asking for donations towards funding a new home, basic necessities such as clothing, personal hygiene products, food, and temporary housing until a more permanent opportunity presents itself. This family has worked hard and given back to their community, and now they need our help. I can’t think of a more appreciative and loving family. Please help with whatever you can; no amount is too small, and even a simple share will help contribute to building the Cook family’s fresh start.