Pacificwide Restoration Project

In February of this year the city of San Jose was hit with one of the most devastating floods to date since the 1800’s. Rain waters caused severe damage to many of the neighborhoods and forced families from their homes.  It was estimated that 14,000 people of the city’s population of 945,942 (according to Suburban Stats) were forced out of their homes.  Amongst those evacuees were Joe and Mary Ramirez, a husband and wife whose home is located downtown off 20th street. 

 

Joe and Mary have lived in their home for over 37 years with their son Antonio, who is also their care-taker. They are disabled seniors with many debilitating ailments which have forced them on permanent disability.  The house is paid for and is 110 years old; which Joe inherited from his parents.  Collectively, they receive a total of $1,400 a month leaving no money for a mortgage or monthly rent.  

 

The flood destroyed their only asset leaving its foundation saturated in dirty contaminated sewer water.  The walls have accumulated mold because of the moisture from the rain water making the property a health hazard.   To add insult to injury, a week prior to the floods Joe’s truck, and only means of transportation was in an accident and totaled.   With no safe living space and having to battle daily for their health Joe and Mary took refuge in the Seven Trees Community Center, where our paths eventually crossed.

 

From the commencement of our meeting, we knew that these were special human beings facing one of the biggest trials of their life. Our team was heart -broken as Mary and Joe shared details which lead to the tragic events. With tears in her eyes Mary cried, “We need help we are disabled and cannot do much for ourselves”.  Touched by what we had just witnessed, our team went back to our Advisory Board and immediately devised a plan to help and here we are.  

 

Joe and Mary need your help. Our goal is to raise at least $10,000 to help in the restoration of their belongings they have lost in the flood. We are partnering with the City of San Jose and the Office of Mayor Sam Liccardo in their relief efforts to rebuild and restore the Ramirez home. Fundraising will be specifically allocated towards new appliances: Including stove, refrigerator, washing machine & dryer.  Other resources will go towards dressers, bed frames, and other household living necessities. 

 

We hope that you will be moved to action as we were to adopt the Ramirez family as we here at Pacificwide have done.  On behalf of Joe and Mary Ramirez we thank you for your prayers and financial support.