The Smith Family House Fire Recovery

Thoughts and prayers to my musical brother, Derek and family...As if times weren't hard already in this crazy 2020, the Smith Family suddenly lost their home and all contents to a house fire. On Monday, July 13th, at 11:45 pm, the family was awoken upstairs to the smell of smoke. The power shut off and as they quickly made their way downstairs they saw the orange glow of the kitchen on fire. They quickly grabbed their shoes and cellphones and called 911. Fortunately, Derek and Erica, along with their 2 sons (Ryan 13, Derek 14) escaped unharmed. Angel, the family puppy was scorched and has minor cuts and scrapes and being checked...We are hopeful she will be ok. Erica said they stood outside and watched the firemen saw out every window, smash through front and back doors, and cut a giant hole in the roof as they worked on putting the fire out. The entire first floor is completely burned out. The second floor has extensive smoke and water damage. In an instant, life can change. 

I have been friends with Derek for over the past 12 years and collaborate musically on various gigs. He is a phenomenal drummer, a  major inspiration to me for his talent and passion musically and devotion to his family. He is the sole provider for the family, a Procurement Specialist at LaSalle University, and works so hard at being a super dad to his three children, Ryan, Derek, and daughter Breanna. Beautiful Erica is a loving mama and wife who runs the roost, keeps on smiling and caring for others despite her health disabilities. Derek and Erica Smith have loved each other for over 27 years and together are two of the kindest souls you could ever be lucky enough to meet. They would help anyone in need! 

Derek thanks everyone for the thoughts, prayers and admits this is going to be a long road. Although they do have house insurance, it will take some time to receive assistance. They left everything in that house fire. All their family musical equipment that they enjoyed playing and recording together along with their clothes. The Red Cross has temporarily set them up at a hotel. Next step will be trying to find a long-term rental as they will be displaced for at least 6-12 months. They will need everything to start over, including food, clothes and shoes...Not exactly an easy donation to find as the boys wear a 12 and 14 in shoe size! Erica said it’s the little things you take for granted as she realized they do not even have their toothbrushes and family medications. 

In an instant, life can change and we are asking for your help by donating and sharing this with others! This GoFundMe page has been created for The Smith Family. All contributions are going directly to Derek and Erica. Due to Covid-19, we know these are very tough times, but every little bit helps. Please consider helping in any way possible during this time of change and uncertainty for them...We all appreciate your support! Love you Smith Family, we got you!

gofundme.com/f/smith-family-house-fire-recovery