Joan Docherty has spent most of her life in Oaklyn, NJ — volunteering at animal rescues, supporting food banks, and being the kind of neighbor who always shows up. Yesterday (April 12th), a house fire took almost everything from her.

The fire started because of a tragic accident involving her brother, who has Alzheimer's disease. In just a few minutes, Joan lost her home, her belongings, and, most painfully, five of her beloved cats. The house she inherited and filled with memories is now unlivable, and with no insurance to fall back on, she is starting from nothing.

Despite everything she has lost, her first worry is her brother. His condition has worsened, and he now needs to move into a rehabilitation or long-term care facility where he can get the full-time support he needs. This makes an already devastating situation even more urgent.

We are asking for any help you can give, whether it's a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser. Every contribution — even $25 — helps cover groceries and goes toward immediate needs like temporary housing, clothing, food, and her brother's care and placement. Your kindness will help Joan begin to rebuild after losing so much in such a short time.