
Help Erika and John after the fire
Donation protected
Our Story
On the afternoon of June 19th, 2025, a fire started on the back staircase of our building. Within minutes, it spread to all six apartments. I was at work when it happened. John was home and got out safely, but there was no time to save anything. By the time I arrived, everything was gone.
We lived on the third floor, and the fire quickly reached our apartment. The roof collapsed, and the flames destroyed all of our belongings — clothes, furniture, important documents — everything. It was heartbreaking to see the place we called home turned to ashes.
That day changed everything for us and for all the families in the building. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and we are deeply grateful for that. The firefighters arrived quickly, but the fire moved even faster. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but what we do know is that our home, and everything in it, is gone.
Now we’re starting from scratch, trying to rebuild one step at a time. It hasn’t been easy, but we’re holding onto hope. Any help — whether it’s a donation, a kind message, or sharing this page — brings us closer to healing and starting over.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of this journey. Your kindness means more than words can say.
— Erika & John
Organizer
German Torres
Organizer
Chicago, IL