I never imagined I’d be writing this, but my family and I are facing a devastating loss. We were watching TV in the living room when we suddenly smelled smoke. We got up to see what was happening and found our garage engulfed in flames. The smoke started leaking through the house, and we rushed to get everyone—including our dogs—outside. Some of us ran back inside to save our cats, but the floor was cracking beneath our feet and the smoke was so thick we couldn’t see anymore. We had to get out as quickly as possible. As soon as we made it outside, the upstairs floor crumbled.

We lost our pets, all of our belongings, and our new home. We had just moved here in November, not even six months ago, and now everything is gone. The shock and heartbreak are overwhelming, but we’re grateful we made it out safely.

Right now, we need help with anything—temporary housing, replacing essentials, and starting to rebuild. Absolutely anything helps, and we’re so thankful for any support you can give. Your kindness means the world to us as we try to recover from this tragedy.