Paula and Orion Stephan’s lives were turned upside down when a sudden flash flood swept through their homes, leaving them unlivable. Paula, who is 88 years old and recently had knee replacement surgery, and Orion are now staying in a hotel while they figure out their next steps. Orion managed to escape with only the clothes on his back. The flood destroyed nearly everything—furniture, appliances, and even the essentials like furnaces, hot water heaters, and breaker boxes. They’re facing the daunting task of cleaning out their homes and replacing everything from washers and dryers to refrigerators, with so much more still needed.

The road to recovery will be long. Paula and Orion will need at least a month or two before they can return home, and in the meantime, they’re relying on temporary housing and the support of friends and family. Orion is known in the community for his incredible garden, which he lovingly tended and used to can food for the winter. Tragically, the flood also took his chickens, a loss that’s deeply felt.

Your support will help Paula and Orion with immediate needs like clean out assistance, temporary housing, and replacing the many items lost in the flood. Every contribution brings them one step closer to rebuilding their lives and returning to the place they call home.