On Saturday, January 21st, 2017 at about 2:00 p.m., the Ratliff family endured a tragic house fire. Thank the lord that everyone was out safe and unharmed before it was out of control. As for their home, it was unfortunately not so lucky. Kristy was at home with her 2 children and was able to follow the proper steps that she remembered from an open house the family attended a few months prior. She got everyone out safely and by closing the door where the fire was blazing, she saved the spread of this fire and instead of it consuming the entire home, only that room took on the fire damage. Over 400+ gallons of water was pumped into the bedroom (which is on the 3rd level of the home) resulting in water draining down not only past the 2nd level (which is where the other 2 childrens rooms are) causing one of the rooms with a dropped ceiling to completely collapse and everything in daughter Isabelle's room perished due to complete water damage. This then leaked down to their basement with over 5 inches of flooding, ruining all storage items, personal possesions and decorations. Water and smoke severely damaged these rooms as well, destroying all furniture, dressers, mattresses, toys and electronics as well as anything plastic needing to be immediatly thrown out. The Ratliff's have received an overwhelming amount of donations in means of clothing, food, toiletries, toys and replacement school supplies. Neighbors, friends, family and especially Lakeshore Public Schools, (where all three of their children attend elementary school) all reached out to help the family with immediate necessities. Chris, Kristy and their family feel so grateful and overjoyed that people have been so kind.
Unfortunately, the condition of the home is catastrophic. They were left no choice but to evacuate that day so the home could be boarded and completely remodeled. With an estimated time of 30-120 days of home repair, they're doing their best to be strong and get through this for the well being and comfort of their children. However, it is a continuous struggle to face everyday challenges that this tragedy has bestowed upon them. The commute to get the kids to school, work, keeping everything together and making sure their children have what they need is a daily battle for them. Among needing replacement furniture and household items, they are also in dyer need of day to day living expenses in the meantime of construction. What makes matters worse, is the family did NOT have renters insurance. So everything thrown out is not covered by any means. Any and every donation will be greatly appreciated and MUCH needed to help this family of 5 get back on their feet and back into their happy home. Thank you all for your concern, time and support.