My name is Sarah Karlson and I work at Rooted's southside Badger Rock location managing the gardening and culinary arts programs for youth and community. This fundraiser is for a family we love and have worked with for many years to support Breana and her kids Deandre, Des'Marie, Myron and Myana who lost everything in a house fire on Sept 25th.

In Breana's words:

"Last night, my family experienced something I never imagined we would have to go through. A fire took our home and everything we had.

I am a mother of four beautiful children — 17-year-old son, 14-year-old daughter, 9-year-old son, and 7-year-old daughter. When the fire happened, my only thought was getting my babies and pets out safely. By the grace of God, all four of my children, 2 dogs, and I made it out alive. For that, I am forever grateful.

While we made it out, we lost almost everything we owned. Our clothes, shoes, furniture, household belongings, personal items, important things, and so many memories are gone including my children's last items they had in remembrance of their late father. We also tragically lost our beloved cat Macy Gray, which has been incredibly heartbreaking for our entire family.

Right now, we are trying to figure out what comes next. The American Red Cross has helped us with a hotel room for the weekend. I am so grateful for that blessing. But tomorrow, we still have to figure out where we will go and how I will provide my children with everything they need.

I am asking for help because my family is starting completely over.

The money raised will help us with temporary and permanent housing expenses, as I have to find a new place to live, clothing and shoes for all five of us. Food, toiletries, transportation, school supplies, household necessities, deposits, cremation of our cat Macy, and other unexpected expenses that come with losing your home and belongings in a fire.

My goal is $20,000, but honestly, any amount will help us tremendously. Even $5, $10, or $20 could help us restart our journey replacing what we lost last night

If you aren't able to donate, please share this fundraiser and keep my family in your prayers. A share can reach someone who may be able to help, and every prayer means so much to us.

This has been one of the hardest moments of my life. As a mother, my heart hurts knowing my children lost their home, their belongings, and their sense of security. I am thankful beyond words that I still have my four babies here with me.

We lost our home. We lost our belongings. We lost our beloved cat. But we did not lose each other.

With God's help, and with the love and support of our family, friends, and community, we will rebuild. ❤️‍

Thank you to everyone who donates, shares, prays, checks on us, or simply sends words of encouragement. We truly appreciate every single act of kindness during this difficult time.

God bless you all."