This holiday season, I’m asking for help on behalf of one of the kindest, most selfless people I’ve had the honor of knowing—my friend Richard Lopez, of Great Falls, Montana. Richard lives in a modest mobile home with his wife Chayla, and their 15-year-old son Marshall. They live simply, work hard, and always find a way to make things work even when times are tough.

A Terrifying Loss in the Middle of Nowhere

Last Sunday, Richard set out early in the morning to go hunting—to put food on the table. But on the long road out, he and his passenger suddenly smelled smoke coming through the air vents of his pickup truck. Before they could even process what was happening, the smoke turned into flames.

Because they were miles away from civilization, help wasn’t an option. Richard had no choice but to stand there and watch as his truck—the same truck he has relied on for over 10 years—become completely engulfed in flames.

He lost everything inside:

His Milwaukee power tools, which he uses daily for work

All of his winter gear, crucial for surviving Montana’s brutal winters

Countless personal items accumulated over the years

The truck itself is a total loss. This wasn’t just a vehicle—it was his lifeline to work, groceries, appointments, and to providing for his family.

Why This Matters So Much

If you knew Richard the way I do, you’d know that helping others is simply who he is.

In more than a decade of friendship, I’ve never seen him be cruel, harsh, or selfish—not once. He is gentle, humble, and deeply devoted to his family.

He married Chayla and stepped into the role of father without hesitation, eventually adopting Marshall and becoming the positive, steady male role model every young man deserves. Marshall is who he is today in large part because of Richard’s encouragement, patience, and love.

But Richard is also the type of man who never asks for help, even when he desperately needs it. So I’m asking for him.

Why We’re Raising Funds

Richard now has no truck to get to work.

He has no tools to do his job.

He has no winter clothing in a state where temperatures can drop dangerously low.

I want to help ease this burden for him and his family—especially during the holidays when no one should have to face a tragedy like this.

Our goal is to raise $25,000, which will go towards:

Every Dollar Makes a Difference

Whether you donate $5 or $500, your support will directly help a hardworking husband and father rebuild what was taken from him in a matter of minutes. Richard would give the shirt off his back to anyone—now I hope we can give back to him in his time of need.

If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others. The more people who see his story, the greater impact we can make together.

Thank you for reading, thank you for caring, and thank you for helping a truly good man get back on his feet.

Let’s show Richard and his family that even in their darkest moment, they’re not alone.