Hello community,

My name is Natalia, I’m 26 years old, and I reside in Cleveland, Ohio. An electrical fire started in my home October 30th. I woke up out of my sleep to get a snack from the kitchen it started to smell like smoke, but nothing was burning. I looked around to see a big red glow coming from my bedroom; when I looked my mattress had caught fire. There was no fire extinguisher in the house so I tried to put it out with a bucket of water and a blanket, but the smoke was so thick I couldn’t breathe. I hurried and grabbed my phone that was near the bed. It was burnt on the edges, black from being so close to the fire. I got 3rd degree burns on my hand from battling the flames and when I ran out the house with no shoes or coat I couldn’t call for help because my phone was temporary unavailable due to the temperature being too hot. I woke up the neighbors so they could call for help and get out of their homes in case the fire went haywire.

My personal belongings, items from my late grandma, and cherished tokens from when my baby was born; gone in just a couple of minutes, up in smoke. I could care less about the materialistic stuff; specifically this loss has been especially hard because I’ve been fighting for a better life, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Im currently in a custody battle to get my beautiful 1 year old daughter Milani back, so having a stable place to stay is crucial. I currently work as a bartender and I’ve worked so hard the past year to get where I’m at. Last summer at this time I was hopeless, pregnant, and homeless. This home was supposed to be a fresh start for us. I have nothing again, but this time I have hope. I hate asking for help but I know I need it right now. This was a very traumatizing event that happened and I’m paranoid to even fall asleep.

I’m asking for help while I get back on my feet. I’m not perfect, but I’m trying. I won’t stop fighting for a better life, so I can be a great mother to my baby girl. if anyone knows of resources or advice on situations like this any counsel will be greatly appreciated. I’m currently in need of toiletries, clothing, food, a living space, and financial advice on loans and credit cards.

Any donation, big or small, or even sharing this link means the world to me. Thank you so much for reading, caring, and believing in me.

With love and gratitude,

Natalia god bless you