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On February 23, Evan and Tonia's home burnt to the ground. They have lost everything — just as their lives together have started to grow. This past year, they bought their home and got engaged. They have plans to get married this August. Now, Evan and Tonia are homeless. We are so incredibly lucky that everyone made it out safely.
My name is Cari, and I'm raising money on behalf of Evan (my brother) and Tonia (his fiancee). Evan and Tonia are kind, generous members of their community. They both work at Chattooga Belle Farms in Long Creek, where Tonia is the head chef, and Evan can be found coordinating weddings. In Tonia's spare time, you'll find her baking cookies and cakes and treats for anyone and everyone's birthdays. You'll find Evan at the circus arts gym he recently started in Clayton, teaching kids and adults alike.
In June 2022, Evan and Tonia got engaged, with plans to get married in August 2023. Over the last year, they bought the house they were previously renting; here, they've raised dogs, cats, ducks, chickens, and more. With this loss, a lot of things are up in the air — but it's clear that they intend to stay in Longcreek and rebuild their lives.
We are hoping to raise $10,000 to help Tonia and Evan start rebuilding. Money doesn't fix the loss or make the trauma go away. But it helps get the ball rolling. Evan and Tonia have a bit of savings, and the house was insured; however, the insurance will primarily go to cover the mortgage, and anything extra now will help ensure their savings aren't completely decimated by this fire.
Any money you're able to donate will help; some of the expenses it will cover may include:
- Supplies for Evan & Tonia such as clothes, toiletries, and basic necessities
- Food for Evan, Tonia, and their numerous animals
- Allowing Evan and Tonia to take some time off work while they respond to this disaster
- Securing dumpsters and contractors to begin clearing the debris so they can rebuild
If you aren't able to donate financially, of course, we understand. If you would prefer to donate time, clothes, food, supplies, or more, please reach out. And if you're able to share this fundraiser, of course, we appreciate it.
No matter what, thank you for reading, and thank you for sending your well-wishes. We are so grateful that Evan and Tonia are safe — and we are so grateful for the community that supports them now.