October 11, 2022, at approximately 1pm, a family home on the 200 block of Hobart St. in West Philadelphia caught on fire. Because of the fire department's lack of urgency, the family lost EVERYTHING, including keepsakes and belongings of our family's late matriarch, Emma Wilkins. Countless emergency calls were placed as the fire affected up to 8 houses on the block. The fire department showed up only after a cop on patrol noticed what was happening and called in for help.

For decades, this has been home to our family. We have celebrated life, death, and everything in between at that home. My Aunt Shawn, who was living in the house at the time of the fire, has kept our matriarch's spirit by ensuring that family and friends in the community always have someone to watch their kids. She always hosts the annual BBQs for the family, as Hobart St. is home to multiple generations. Although the belongings can never be replaced, we are asking our community, our friends, and our loved ones to assist in rebuilding the family home. We appreciate ANY assistance; no hammer is too old, no nail too rusty. Any/all donations and liscensed helping hands are welcome.