On Monday, January 22, San Diego County was hit by a storm, the likes of which hadn’t been experienced in close to 100 years. Rainfall records were broken, waterways and storm channels overflowed, and several neighborhoods were overwhelmed with floodwaters. Steve and Alicia Crow, along with their grandson Levi, live in Spring Valley, in an area of San Diego County that has never flooded before. However, what started as a heavy storm, quickly turned into a life-threatening situation in a matter of minutes.

Alicia had just arrived home and had begun to change her clothes in the bathroom when she thought she heard running water outside the door. Thinking it was a broken water pipe, she opened the door, to find her house was already four inches deep in water. She called Steve for help and started filming what was going on. But within minutes, it was nearly waist deep with water and mud pouring in from the broken front door caused by the force of the water outside.

Steve, along with their son Beau and daughter-in-law Martha, rushed to the scene, but they were not able to drive into the area. Leaving their cars several blocks away, they had to wade/swim to get to the house. With the water still rising, they grabbed their dog, Brittany, and a few personal items… and with the help of a County Sheriff Deputy, carried Alicia to safety.

After the water receded, they went back to their home. The interior of the house is a total loss, as is about 80% of the contents. The exterior and fencing are all badly damaged as well. Sadly, they did not have flood insurance, and have been told their homeowners insurance will not cover the damage. Initial estimates for the damage alone is over $250,000, not including the contents. Alicia’s Jeep, which had been in the driveway, was a total loss, but thankfully, their auto insurance will cover it. They are currently staying with Beau and Martha as they figure out what to do next, but are truly thankful that everyone in the family, as well as their neighborhood got out safely.

San Diego County has already been declared an official State of Emergency, and that has gone to the state level. If it is determined there is enough damage, it could be moved up to a Federal State of Emergency where FEMA could step in to help. But that could take weeks, and there are no guarantees how much, if any, help will come.

If you are reading this, you probably already know that Steve and Alicia are the kind of people who are there for everyone else in times of need, whether it be family, friends, coworkers, or strangers… even quietly providing Christmas gifts for kids and families that would have gone without. They are humble folks and would never ask for help from anyone… so I am asking for them. I am setting a goal of $50,000 to help start them on the road to recovery… starting with Levi. Levi has Autism and his world has been turned upside down. We’re hoping to quickly replace some of the things that bring him the most comfort, and help cover some of the initial clean-up expenses that will begin immediately.

Any amount is appreciated, no matter how small… it all adds up. Help us help this family begin the long journey of getting back into their home.

Thank you and God bless… We will keep you posted on the progress with photos and updates.