In 2020, during the pandemic, our parents Roy and Pat lost their home in Feather Falls, California, in the North Complex Fire. FEMA provided disaster relief, which allowed them to purchase a modest travel trailer as temporary housing. Five years later, they are still living in that trailer—despite it being significantly smaller than their original home and never intended for full-time use, especially for a couple in their 60s and 70s. Roy is disabled and Pat is 78 years old.

The hot water heater and clothes dryer no longer work. They boil water on the stove for dishes and hang their laundry to dry daily.

Now for the good news: A grant through ReCover California is in process to replace their original home with a new, fully functional mobile home—complete with working appliances, a handicap-accessible ramp, and bathroom.

Planning is already underway: surveys, floor plans, well testing, and more. However, there’s one major obstacle.

FEMA requires full accounting of all funds received to avoid duplication of aid. Nearly all of the disaster relief money has been properly documented and spent on housing. Approximately $6,000—was spent on essential survival items like food, clothing, and gas during their displacement, which FEMA does not consider approved housing expenditures.

Without repayment of that $6,500, the grant cannot be funded.

Our parents live on fixed incomes from Social Security and are below the poverty line. We’re contributing what we can, but we need help. Any amount you feel moved to give will help remove this final barrier and bring them closer to a safe, dignified home.

With love and gratitude,

Amelia, Sara, Angie, David, Dennis, Jimmy, Pat, and Roy