My name is Emilio, and I am creating this fundraiser with Shawnda’s permission.
In the early morning hours of June 28, Shawnda and her family experienced the unthinkable. A devastating fire destroyed the home they built their lives around. Thanks to the quick actions of neighbors who noticed the fire and alerted the family, everyone made it out safely, including their beloved pets.
While we are incredibly grateful that no lives were lost, everything changed in a matter of minutes.
This wasn’t just a house.
It was Shawnda’s home. It was where her family made memories. It was also where she operated her home daycare, caring for children and supporting families in our community. Overnight, she lost both the roof over her family’s heads and the business she worked so hard to build.
When I asked Shawnda what her family’s greatest need is right now, her answer was simple:
“This was my business and my home. Housing is a priority first, then stuff.”
Those words say everything about where this family is right now. They aren’t asking for luxury or comfort. They’re simply trying to find stability and begin again.
Right now, our goal is to help Shawnda and her family secure safe housing so they can begin rebuilding their lives. Donations will help provide safe housing, cover essential living expenses, replace necessities lost in the fire, and help Shawnda begin rebuilding both her home and the daycare business she worked so hard to build.
This tragedy also comes during an already incredibly difficult year. Shawnda has been facing serious health challenges, including breast cancer surgery earlier this year, ongoing medical conditions, and an upcoming hip replacement surgery in August. Instead of focusing on healing and recovery, she is now faced with rebuilding her family’s life from the ground up.
No family ever expects to lose everything overnight. If you are able to help, no matter the amount, your generosity will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your family, friends, coworkers, and social networks. A simple share can help this fundraiser reach someone who is able to give, and that can make all the difference.
This fundraiser is being organized with Shawnda’s knowledge and permission, and all donations will go directly toward helping her family recover from this devastating loss.
Independent Verification
For anyone who would like additional information about this tragic event, the fire has been documented by the responding agency and local news.
Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department (Official Facebook Post)
DC News Now
Yahoo News
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your prayers, your generosity, and your compassion. Every donation, every share, and every prayer helps Shawnda and her family move one step closer to stability, healing, and rebuilding.
Organizer and beneficiary
Shawnda Metivier
Beneficiary