Help Justin & Shantel Rebuild After a Devastating House Fire
In the blink of an eye, a normal morning turned into every family’s worst nightmare.
On Thursday, August 14th, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, life changed forever for Justin and Shantel and their three children — Koleton, Quinten, and Lillian — when a sudden fire tore through their home, destroying everything they owned in a matter of minutes.
When the flames erupted, the two youngest children were trapped inside. In a moment that no parent should ever have to endure, Shantel could only watch helplessly as firefighters fought their way through the smoke and heat to reach them. Thanks to the bravery and quick action of those heroes, both children were pulled from the burning home and are safe. The family’s dogs were also rescued, but heartbreak struck again when they learned their two beloved cats did not survive.
The fire didn’t just take their home — it also stole their livelihoods. Shantel’s small business, Etched in Grain, which she lovingly built and ran from home, is now gone, leaving her with no income. Justin, a dedicated farmer, lost all of his critical farming data in the blaze — and with harvest season just one month away, he now faces an enormous challenge to prepare and continue providing for his family.
In just one night, they lost:
• Their home and every belonging
• Their source of income
• Cherished family pets
• Years of hard work and memories
We are raising funds to help Justin and Shantel:
• Secure immediate housing and living essentials
• Replace clothing, furniture, and household necessities
• Rebuild Etched in Grain so Shantel can begin earning again
• Replace lost farming data, tools, and resources so Justin can prepare for harvest
• Support their children through the emotional recovery ahead
Justin and Shantel are the kind of people who never hesitate to help others — now they need our help. Every donation, big or small, will make a difference in helping them get back on their feet. If you can’t donate, please share this fundraiser so their story can reach as many people as possible.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for showing this family that they are not alone.
Organizer and beneficiary
Shantel Maguire
Beneficiary