Hello, my name is Natalie and last night, as heavy snow fell over Canton, a devastating house fire changed my grandparents' lives forever.

My grandfather, German, and his wife, Cielo Rubi, lost their home located at 1011 5th St SW after a fire that started in the neighboring house quickly spread due to strong winds and freezing temperatures. The extreme weather made it very difficult for firefighters to control the flames.

Within a short time, the fire consumed most of their home and destroyed nearly everything they owned — their belongings, furniture, clothing, personal memories, and even their vehicle.

Thankfully, they made it out alive. In the middle of the chaos, they also helped make sure that others in the home were able to escape safely. But now, they are left facing the heartbreaking reality of starting over from nothing.

My grandparents are older adults who worked very hard their entire lives to have a place they could call home. Losing it this way has been emotionally and financially overwhelming.

As a family, we are doing everything we can to support them — providing temporary shelter, basic necessities, and emotional support — but the truth is that the help we can give is not enough to cover the magnitude of this loss.

They now need assistance with:

• Temporary housing

• Clothing and shoes

• Furniture and household essentials

• Medications and personal care items

• Transportation

• Future rebuilding expenses

Any donation, big or small, will go directly toward helping German and Cielo get back on their feet after this tragedy.

If you're unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others. Your support, prayers, and kindness mean more than words can express during this incredibly difficult time.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping our family rebuild hope after this devastating loss.

With gratitude,

Family of German & Cielo