Millbrae Fire Victims Fund

THEIR STORY:

On  April 27, 2020, a three-alarm fire tragically destroyed an apartment building in Millbrae, CA (see news coverage).  Some of the fire victims were students who attend Mills High School, where I work as a school counselor. The fire not only ripped away their home of 15 years, but water damage destroyed nearly all their furniture and belongings. 

Since then, our school has gathered donations to help cover basic necessities, but two of the families still lack permanent housing. In fact, the inn where they have been staying is scheduled to be demolished after July 6th -- when they will ONCE AGAIN be displaced. Without your help, I fear they are on the verge of homelessness.

Please consider making a donation that will help two families find a new home, and cover the first month's rent plus deposit. (Bay Area apartment rentals are about $3,000 to $4,000/month). Additional funds will be used toward food, clothing, and replacing basic household essentials.

MEET THESE WONDERFUL FAMILIES: 

Yolanda & Lorenzo Maravilla have four children ages 4, 14, 17 & 19. Due to COVID-19, Lorenzo's work hours have been cut back, making it even more challenging to make ends meet. Yolanda's eldest daughter Jenny is also pregnant and due in October... and this baby will need a home.

Olga Sanchez has 2 children ages 16 & 17. A single mom, she has worked hard as a hospital cafeteria worker in order to support her kids. As of June 25th, she is currently furloughed from work due to the pandemic. 

HOW ELSE CAN PEOPLE HELP? 

If you know of affordable, 1 to 3 bedroom housing options in the Bay Area (preferably on the Peninsula), please send a message to me with leads. 

Please consider making a donation today so that the Sanchez and Maravilla families can find a place to call home.  Please also EMAIL or SHARE this link on social media... we need help getting the word out! We are hoping to reach our goal by early July, since they will be forced to move out on July 6th. Thank you for your kindness and generosity!!

~Rachel Mack, Mills High School Counselor