This weekend a devastating wildfire burned through Lake County in Northern California. The fire began Saturday afternoon and by Sunday had exploded into a raging 61,000 acres of wind and drought fueled flames that forced the evacuation of thousands and has burned well over 1,000 homes and structures.

Tragedy has struck for this family. They were evacuated from their houses due to  the Valley Fire. They fled to Valerie's house in Hidden Valley Lake, only to be urgently evacuated from there. Bill didn't even have time to grab his wallet, let alone personal items for him or his son. Melissa and Keith were able to save their dog, but that is it. Melissa (Bettencourt) Beeson, Keith Beeson and Bill Nickoli (and his 10 year old son, Zane) lost EVERYTHING--their houses burned to the ground. The family is going through a deep grieving process--as are all of the people affected by this atrocity.

This fundraising account has been established to assist them in rebuilding their lives one step at a time. It's a long road ahead--but thankfully they are all safe and have each other! And...they have us.

Please consider giving any amount that you can to this family. They are infinitely grateful for any donation and for your generosity. Let this be a way for us all, a community of their family and friends, to show our love and support for them as they navigate their way through this devastating loss.

(per gofundme.com: This account was set up by Shelly Fitzsimmons from Sonoma County. Shelly has been friends with this family for 20 years. 100% of funds received will be used solely by the Bettencourt/Nickoli/Beeson family to rebuild their lives: to buy clothes, food, personal care items, bedding, school supplies, etc. etc.).