Family Fire in Sebastian, Florida

On Thursday, August 20, 2020, around 3:00p, lightning struck my parent's home in Sebastian, Florida. A nearby neighbor called my mom, stating that she saw smoke coming from their roof. My mom called for my dad, and they began to walk around the house, not smelling anything. They walked outside and immediately saw the smoke coming from the roof. They then walked inside the house and that quick weren't able to breathe or see their hand in front of them. On their way to the front door to get out, they tried to grab whatever they could. They said it was not even 5 minutes from the start of the neighboring phone call, to running outside to see if they could see anything smoking, to managing to grab their car keys, to getting outside and calling 911, that their house was on fire. We thank JESUS for neighbors watching out for neighbors, and that they got out in time!

The firemen arrived on scene and began to work, putting the fire out as my parents stood there in shock, watching their house burn. The police officers had to even stop my dad numerous times from trying to go into his house to grab sentimental items while they were trying to put out the fire. The emotions and the "this isn't real" amazement of it all took over. The process of figuring out the next steps to rebuild their life began, on what they thought when they woke up that day was "just another day."

Not having the words or even knowing what to say to them; and not pretending to know or ever understand the feeling of literally having lost EVERYTHING, the reason for this fundraiser is to help them with their immediate needs the next couple of months. They walked away from their home that evening with their car keys and the clothes on their backs. Yes, the Red Cross and insurance adjusters are figuring things out; but the immediate out of pocket expenses are adding up. The need for clothes, shoes, food/meals, housing, everyday essentials, etc. are just a few of the expenses needed.

As I ended my phone call with my parents last night, my dad kept saying, "We will get through this." And they will as we know only Jesus can give them peace and comfort at this time, and we trust Him to provide for all their needs. My brother Joe and I thank you for your generosity and prayers. We truly appreciate all that you can do to help!

***If you would like to donate clothing/other items, or sign up to bring them a meal, or order a meal and have it delivered, in an effort to respect their privacy during this time, please send a message so we can reach out to you personally.
THANK YOU!!!!