Early this morning — Black Friday at around 4:30 AM — my brother Scott, his partner Tiesha, and their one-year-old son Eli lived through a terrifying house fire at Tiesha’s Great-Grandmother’s home, where they had been staying. They were trapped upstairs with the fire coming up the staircase toward them.

From what I understand, Tiesha opened the window with one thought in her mind: getting Eli out safely. She was screaming for help for her baby when, by an incredible stroke of timing, the Fire Marshal happened to be driving by. He saw her at the window, stopped immediately, grabbed a ladder, and — with the help of a police officer who arrived — got all three of them safely down. Everyone, including the Great-Grandmother, made it out alive. We are unbelievably grateful.

Right now, they’re trying to figure out what can be salvaged and what their next steps will be. They were issued a hotel voucher for temporary shelter, but the landlord (a family member) ended up taking those funds instead. I don’t want to dwell on that, but it has left them without the immediate support they were supposed to receive.

They do have their vehicle, but with a one-year-old, basic needs add up quickly. I was able to bring them some diapers, wipes, and formula this morning, but they will need more essentials — food, clothing, hygiene items, and anything else that comes up as they navigate this sudden crisis.

If you’re able to help, any amount truly makes a difference. And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this fundraiser means so much.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers during this frightening and uncertain time.