Francine is my grandma, and she’s lived in ocean view since 1989—since my mom was just 12 years old. When my mom had me, Francine raised me there too. She was the longest tenant in those apartments, and that home held so many memories for our family. Now, so much will be missed, and so many precious items were lost.

One day, Francine was in one of her back rooms when she heard a loud cracking and popping sound. She looked out her window and saw black smoke rising. With two bad legs and no cane, she managed to get out as quickly as she could, grabbing only her phone and a pair of slides. She was lucky to make it down two flights of stairs and reach the street safely. Later, we learned that the person living below her, who was being evicted and had no power, had run extension cords out the back window and under the house. That’s where the fire started, and now Francine has nothing left. She can’t even invite her grandkids over for the weekends like she always did.

Francine still needs help finding a new apartment, refurnishing her home, and replacing essentials like clothes, TVs, and so much more. She’s always been proud of having her own place—a space where she could relax, play games, and welcome her grand and great grandkids. She always says, “Ain’t nothing like a place of my own.” Any support you can give will help Francine start over and rebuild her safe space. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.