On Sunday, October 18, my 3-year-old niece was struck by a car while crossing a marked crosswalk with her family in Santa Barbara. She suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Los Angeles for specialized care. My brother and sister-in-law are both self-employed. When they can’t work, they don’t get paid. There is no paid leave to fall back on, and right now, they need to be with their daughter. They don’t yet know when they’ll be able to return to work.

Meanwhile, their household bills continue, alongside the added expenses of travel, meals, and being away from home while their little girl is hospitalized. They are also supporting their almost-8-year-old son through this frightening time. I’m her aunt, and I’m asking for help to replace their lost income and cover these expenses. Every donation will help them keep up with everyday bills and give them time to be with their children without the immediate worry of how to make ends meet. There is still so much uncertainty. Financial support is one concrete way we can help carry them through it. If you’re able to donate, any amount would mean so much. If you can’t, please consider sharing this fundraiser.

Thank you for supporting my niece and the people who love her most. For more information about the accident, you can read the local coverage here: https://www.noozhawk.com/young-child-struck-by-vehicle-reportedly-critically-injured-in-santa-barbara/

With gratitude, Julie, her aunt