My daughter Amara is a single mother doing her best to raise two wonderful boys, ages five and four. On Friday, December 19th, her world was turned upside down by a devastating house fire. Everything she owned was either destroyed by flames or ruined by smoke damage. With Christmas so close, she lost not only her home and furniture, but also the presents and savings she had set aside for her boys.

Amara has always been someone who gives back to her community. She grew up in Olathe, attended Olathe North, and later went to K-State for their agricultural department. Despite living with a rare autoimmune disease that affects her muscles, she has volunteered countless hours at the Olathe library, local concession stands, Meals on Wheels, and many other non-profit organizations since she was thirteen. Her beautiful smile and warm heart have touched so many lives.

Now, Amara and her boys are facing the challenge of starting over. Everything must be replaced, and the boys are struggling to understand why all their things are gone. I just want to make it easier for them to get back to life as normal, to walk into a new home and have what they need. Anything you can give will help Amara and her boys rebuild and move forward. Your kindness and support mean more than words can say.