The Mendez family — Rocky, Gina, and their daughter Vyktoria (Vyki) — are longtime Lockhart residents who have experienced an unexpected and devastating loss this holiday season. On Monday night, December 1st, their lives were suddenly upended when a fire broke out in their home.

In the middle of the night, Rocky awoke to flames consuming the wall of their bedroom and immediately ran outside to grab a hose, doing everything he could to stop the fire. Inside the home, Gina rushed to wake Vyki, asked her to call 911, and grabbed a fire extinguisher to help contain the flames. The fire department arrived within minutes and worked quickly to ensure the fire was fully extinguished. Thankfully, everyone made it out safely, but nearly all of the family’s belongings were damaged by fire and smoke, leaving their home uninhabitable during what should be a joyful time of year.

Without homeowner’s insurance, the Mendez family has lost not only their home but also the possessions they’ve built their life around — including Vyki’s dress for the upcoming spring prom. Since the fire, they have been relying on the kindness of extended family for temporary housing as they begin the difficult process of figuring out what comes next in this challenging time.

Gina was born and raised in Lockhart and worked for many years at Capital Cleaners before Vicki was born. Rocky works for a landscaping business in Austin during the week and, on weekends, maintains lawns for families throughout Lockhart. Vyki is 17, a senior at Lockhart High School, and a member of the National Honor Society. The family are active members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and are deeply rooted in the Lockhart community.

As the Mendez family works to rebuild their lives and home, this GoFundMe is an opportunity for our community to come together and surround them with care and support. Any donation—no matter the size — will help with immediate needs like clothing, essentials, and temporary housing. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign. Your kindness, prayers, and generosity are greatly appreciated and will help them begin to rebuild and bring a sense of hope during a season that has been marked by loss.