One of the many things Evan and Melissa Tate do is help people, all people, all of the time. The one thing they don't do is ask for help themselves. As a long-time friend, I've asked them if I could create this GoFundMe to help them recover and rebuild from a recent fire at their farm.

Tate Farms is a 4 generation working horse and cattle ranch in Rockwall, Texas. It is one of the last family-owned ranches in the area. Several years ago, the Tate's began using one of their barns as a space for people in the community to gather for events. They have donated this space countless times to non-profit organizations, neighbors, friends, and others. It has become a vital part of both Tate Farms and of the surrounding community.

On April 24, 2021, the Gathering Room (the heart of the barn, where food is served and people "gather") was destroyed by fire. It appears that the fire was caused by an unextinguished cigarette left by a guest.

The Tate's insurance company has not made a final coverage ruling. However, due to the current cost of building materials and labor, we know that there will be a large deficit between any insurance payout and the real cost of teardown and rebuilding. The Tate's cannot cover these unexpected costs.

Melissa and Evan Tate have helped so many of us in the past. If you know them, you've probably experienced this. If you don't know them, know that they would help you anyway. Please consider making a donation to the Tate Farm Fire Relief and Rebuild Fund. All donations will go to costs directly associated with the rebuilding of The Gathering Room at Tate Farms. To help get the word out, please share the link to your Facebook timeline.