I am creating this fundraiser after a fire damaged our home and completely turned our lives upside down. My son, our two cats, and I have been struggling emotionally and mentally as we try to process everything we have lost and everything we are still dealing with. What should have been our place of safety and comfort suddenly became a source of fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak. Since the fire, every day has felt overwhelming. My son has been deeply affected by the disruption and instability, and our cats have also been scared and unsettled from being displaced. Trying to comfort my child, care for our pets, and stay strong while facing this trauma has been one of the hardest experiences of my life.

Right now, we cannot stay in our home. We are waiting for the landlord’s insurance investigation, and my renters insurance is still under review. The Red Cross has helped some, and we are grateful, but we have still had to stay in hotels while we wait for answers. I am a full-time student and receive Social Security, and my son works full-time as a manager at Five Guys, but this sudden crisis has created financial strain that has been hard to keep up with. We urgently need help with food, clothing, pet supplies, hotel stays, and other basic necessities as we try to recover.

This fire has impacted every part of our lives, and we are doing our best to move forward even through the fear, sadness, and uncertainty. Any support, no matter the amount, would mean so much to our little family. If you are able to help or share this fundraiser, thank you for helping us get through this painful time and begin rebuilding a sense of stability and safety.