"Help Rebuild Bustang’s Home, Restore His Retirement"

In a matter of seconds, an unforgiving tornado erased the home and upended the retirement dreams of our father, brother Calvester “Bustang” Robinson.

His family, Eric, alongside his children Terrell, Calvin, and Tiffany, are rallying support after the storm that devastated St. Louis on Friday, May 16, 2025.

Known for showing up for everyone else and never asking for anything in return, Calvester now urgently needs our help.

What Happened

While walking up to his front door at 4575 Cottage Avenue to take cover, Bustang was caught in winds clocked at up to 85 mph, which knocked him off the porch as he reached the top step. The powerful storm collapsed his home, burying him under debris in his own front yard. With debris blocking ambulance access, his son fought through the wreckage and rushed him to the hospital. Thankfully, he is now recovering—but his home and most of his belongings have been destroyed.

The attached photos show just a fraction of the devastation: walls ripped away, the roof scattered down the block, and treasured memories lying in scattered splinters.

Retirement Dreams Upended

Imagine dedicating your entire life to working hard, eagerly looking forward to retirement, only to have it all vanish overnight. On April 30, 2025, just sixteen days before the tornado, Bustang proudly retired, ready to embrace relaxation and precious family time. Now, instead of enjoying those golden years, he faces the reality of rebuilding his life.

Bustang has always been a pillar of strength, generosity, and humor. His kindness and unwavering support have touched the lives of countless people. Now, it's our turn to rally around him, reminding him that the care and compassion he's shown others have not gone unnoticed.

Why We're Asking

Because St. Louis sits on the eastern edge of Tornado Alley, and wind coverage in Missouri policies is often limited, if even available.  Bustang’s plan offers little to no protection. Even if a partial payout arrives, high windstorm deductibles (usually 1–5 % of the dwelling limit) and caps on personal property would still leave tens of thousands of dollars uncovered. FEMA Individual Assistance grants, when approved, average only $4,000–$5,000 per household, far short of actual recovery costs and typically paid out months after inspections. Bustang needs help now, not after the paperwork clears. Your generosity delivers immediate relief and hope.

Funding Goal & Breakdown

Our fundraising target is $50,000. GoFundMe’s automated first milestone is $15,000—enough to secure three months of safe housing, meals, and clothing while we clear the debris. Every gift beyond that moves Bustang one step closer to rebuilding.

Where Your Dollars Go

$140 secures one night of safe hotel shelter in St. Louis (the average nightly rate is $143).

$150 provides a week's worth of meals and groceries while the kitchen is out of commission.

$750 replaces a major household appliance (e.g., refrigerator, range, washer) lost in the storm.

Budget Milestones

Emergency Housing & Essentials (Days 1–90): Short‑term rental, groceries, clothing, household basics — $15,000

Cleanup & Debris Removal (Weeks 1–8): Dumpster fees, professional removal, salvage — $8,000

Rebuild or Relocate Fund (Months 2–12): Construction deposits, furnishings, moving costs — $22,500

Contingency & Fees: Unexpected medical bills, GoFundMe & bank fees, safety margin — $4,500

Why your help matters: Even with partial insurance coverage and the possibility of a modest FEMA grant, Bustang still faces a large wind deductible, months of temporary housing, and replacement costs that are never fully reimbursed. Your gift closes that gap and puts him back on the path to stability.

Total Goal: $50,000

How You Can Help

Donate — Every contribution, large or small, brings Bustang closer to stability.

Share — If you're unable to contribute financially, sharing this fundraiser with your network can be a significant help.

Follow for Updates — Click “Follow” on this page to receive real‑time progress and milestone updates.

Send Encouragement — Your messages of hope and support uplift Bustang during this challenging journey.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Bustang during this difficult time. Your generosity helps transform devastating loss into a hopeful new beginning.

With deepest gratitude,

Eric Sr., Terrell, Calvin, Tiffany & Family