Help the Ross Family rebuild after Hurricane

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind- hearted Strangers,

After years of saving and planning, my sister and brother-in-law, Stephanie and Preston Ross, were able to purchase their first home in Tampa just a few months ago. Last night, Hurricane Helene came through and washed it all away. Around 4 feet of water from the storm surge came into their home. Sewage came up through the drains. Everything the water touched was ruined. No amount of planning and preparation could have stopped it. Steph and Preston have worked so hard for so long to be able to have a home of their own. To have it taken away in a matter of a few hours is devastating.

Events like this remind us that we are not in control. By God's grace, Stephanie, Preston, and my nieces, Nova and Stella, are together and safe. Now they start the process of rebuilding their lives. Insurance should cover the structural damage to the house, but not any of their personal belongings. The cost of replacing furniture, clothes, personal items, and their two vehicles that were lost, not to mention temporary housing, insurance deductibles of at least $6000, and storage of what might be salvageable, is well beyond their means.

Steph and Preston are very thankful to each and every person who has reached out asking how they can help during this extremely difficult and overwhelming time.

I know there are many of us that want to help but don't know how. We wish we could physically be there to give them big hugs, cry with them, bring them meals, spend time with the girls, help remove ruined furniture, flooring, walls, and cabinets so the rebuilding can begin, but we cannot. We can, however, lessen the financial burden that Stephanie and Preston face during this incredibly challenging time. I ask you to please consider donating whatever amount you can. No contribution is too small. Together we can show our support and love to the Ross family- no matter how near or far away we may be.

Thank you,

Courtney Barker (Stephanie Ross's sister far away in Burlison, TN)