Dear friends, family, and kind strangers,

Just days before Christmas, the Switzer family faced a nightmare no one should ever experience.

A fire started on the floor below their apartment and spread rapidly, completely destroying their home. John, Michelle, and their son Jared escaped safely—but Josh’s two young children, Ja’Kari (2 years old) and Leilanni (5 years old), were there for a sleepover with their grandparents and uncle when the fire broke out. Thank God, everyone got out unharmed, but the family lost everything: furniture, clothes, cherished family photos, and the place filled with so many precious memories.

This devastating loss comes just over a year after the family lost their beloved son and brother Josh in October 2024. Josh was only 31 and a wonderful father to Ja’Kari and Leilanni. His sudden passing left a deep wound, and the family has been holding each other closer than ever—brothers Jared and John, sister Jessica, grandparents John and Michelle, and especially the little ones who miss their father every day.

The apartment was truly the heart of the family. It’s where Ja’Kari and Leilanni spent so much time—coming over often for playtime, running into their grandparents’ arms, enjoying sleepovers with their uncles and aunt, and feeling completely safe and loved. Now, in the middle of the holiday season when the kids should be full of excitement and joy, that special place is gone.

We are an incredibly close family—we’ve always been there for each other through every challenge. With strong faith and endless love, we know John, Michelle, Jared, John, Jessica, Ja’Kari, and Leilanni will rise again. But right now, starting over feels overwhelming, and they need our help.

Your donation will go directly toward:

• Temporary housing and a deposit for a new apartment

• Replacing beds, furniture, and basic household items

• New clothes and shoes for everyone, especially the kids

• Food and everyday essentials during this difficult transition

If you can’t donate right now, please share this page with your friends, family, and community—sharing truly helps more than you know.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your prayers, kindness, and support. Together, we can help this beautiful family heal, honor Josh’s memory, and give Ja’Kari and Leilanni the safe, loving spaces they deserve.

With gratitude and hope,

Deborah Schwartz