On the night of December 16th, my sister Bridget Felder and her family experienced a devastating house fire. Thankfully, her husband Anthony, and her children Michael, Josette, and Cami were able to escape without injury. Their cats, Tiko and Mouse also survived the fire.

While dealing with the devastation of the fire and trying to secure temporary housing, both Bridget and Anthony contracted COVID. This was particularly scary for Bridget, who is high risk due to congenital health issues. Bridget, a local healthcare worker, is just short of full-time employment, so does not have the benefit of paid time off or sick leave, and Anthony did not have enough PTO saved up to cover the unfortunate events. In total, the family lost three weeks of income.

During the routine investigation by the insurance company, it was found that their house contained asbestos and other hazardous materials. Unfortunately, these findings are delaying the process for the family to complete their claim via their renter’s insurance, and due to these findings, most of their items are deemed a total loss. As a family, they have been living in a hotel, trying to manage day-to-day living without the ability to cook or do laundry in a normal fashion. Some members of the community very generously reached out and helped the family with their immediate needs in the aftermath of the fire. The family is truly thankful and humbled at the outpouring of support from the community thus far.

The family has still been unable to secure a permanent housing. Due to the hazardous conditions of their previous housing, the family is unsure when they will be able to move forward with their claim. They need financial assistance to replace damaged items such as clothes, furniture, and a deposit for a new home.

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