The Simmons Project: Help Us Rebuild Our Lives

On March 6th at 1:41 am, I got one of the worst calls of my life. The house I knew was completely engulfed in flames, and I was 5 hours away from home with no way to help out. The place that my parents built from the ground up for us was gone. Some of my beloved animals are gone. My parents' business, most of their equipment, clothes, shoes, laughter, and memories are gone. In one moment, a single spark destroyed everything. My life went from worrying about submitting my assignments to worrying about where I would go for spring break as it was just about to begin. Even more importantly, my mind went racing to what my parents were going through. In addition to supporting two kids through college and prioritizing their mental health in these trying times, they now have to re-build the first home they ever owned and the business that was their only source of income. All while grieving the pets they rescued, loved, and cherished for years.

Words from my parents:

“On Thursday March 6. We received one of the most devastating calls of our lives. Our Home and Home based business was engulfed in flames! By the GRACE OF GOD, we were not in that home when the fire sparked however, our precious feathered and furry babies suffered. Some perished in the blaze and some are still suffering the aftermath of the trauma. We are also suffering. Aside from the precious lives that were lost, we've also lost our entire livelihood. Our home was completely destroyed. The fire and smoke damaged everything from Roof to basement. We are grateful that our lives have been spared and have been given the precious gift of life!

lask you, I implore you, to please help my family rebuild. If you know our spirit, then you know that we have a lot more living and giving to do in this world! The way I see it, we have been blessed with the gift of opportunity of service to our community and one tragedy will not stop our cause. This time we just need a little help in order to rebuild and regain strength! Understanding that not everyone can donate monetarily, there are other ways that you can help....

Considering that nothing is salvageable, we would love to accept care packages of all sorts.

With the help of family and friends, itemized care essentials for our two youngest college students are beyond appreciated. They're personal items where here at home and they are coming home to the worst spring break of their lives. Damian and I would greatly appreciate personal care kits including personal items and daily care items. If you wish to assist with our business needs to get "Ree Ree the Clown and Friends" back on track, we would love animal food resources and temporary and voluntary boarding information and resources. Also, physical volunteers.”

So I ask you, I implore you to help my family rebuild. I ask that if you can not donate monetarily. That you donate:

The items in the link or the items that are listed. These items are things my mom, dad, me, and brother need after losing them in the fire. You don’t have to purchase these exact items, but we wanted to give an idea of what would be most helpful. Any support is truly appreciated!

Please send everything to 1918 Colonial Drive, Croydon, PA 19201 (temporary housing)

Lastly, please share and spread the word. Thank you for supporting us through this difficult time!