Early yesterday morning, our dear friends Jared and Taylor experienced something no one should ever have to go through—their home filled with smoke in a matter of moments. Jared was jolted awake by Taylor’s screams, and within seconds, the house was engulfed. The smoke appeared to be coming from under the kitchen sink, likely starting somewhere in the basement, but it was chaotic and unsure. Even the fire department, after arriving quickly, couldn’t locate visible flames—it was possibly hidden inside the walls.

They worked quickly to evacuate and get their beloved cats out safely. One of their cats, Teddy, was missing for nearly 20 agonizing minutes before firefighters found him. He was shaken, but alive.

While the fire never broke through visibly, the damage from the smoke and suspected internal fire is extensive. They’ve been told it will be at least eight months before the home is safe to live in again.

Right now, they’re working with a professional restoration company to salvage what little they can—clean what’s restorable, and safely dispose of the rest. Unfortunately, this kind of service isn’t cheap, and like many of us, they weren’t financially prepared for a disaster of this scale.

To make matters worse, they’re not allowed back inside unless accompanied by professionals, and there’s always a possibility the insurance company may even challenge their claim and try to lay blame on the tenants.

Jared and Taylor have lost nearly everything—clothes, furniture, sentimental belongings—and are facing an overwhelming road ahead. They’re not the kind of people to ask for help, but they need it now. Every dollar helps—whether it’s for temporary housing, basic necessities, or restoring just a piece of what was lost.

If you know them, you know how generous, kind, and hardworking they are. Let’s rally around them the way they’ve shown up for others time and again.

Please share, donate if you can, and help them find some hope amidst this heartache.