On Sunday, December 1st, the home of Tinksha and James Nathaniel was devastated by a fire while they were on a family trip.  The Nathaniel family has lived on Phil Ellena for over 20 years, and lost almost everything they own in the fire, including a beloved cat.  Luckily, no one was home at the time, and the family is all with relatives nearby.  The Nathaniels raised seven children in this home, and provide daily after school care for their grandchildren who attend Henry school. The house is an important hub for the entire family.

Also affected by the fire are the Rhodes/Rawls family next door. While their house was structurally unscathed by the fire, there is considerable smoke damage, and will be uninhabitable for some time while it is remediated. Ray and Patrice Rhodes, Erica and Mike Rawls,  their 7-year-old son Aaron and Ebony and Elliot Rhodes are all staying with friends temporarily. It is unclear what the timeline will be for them to move back in.


While both of these families will have many needs in the coming weeks, and we as their neighbors will work with them to help as best we can, the most immediate need is financial support. We have set an initial goal of $5000 to help with clothing, transportation, lodging, and food in the short term.


In the spirit of our Pelham and Mount Airy communities and the holiday season, we ask that you please help your neighbors in need.