Barrasso Family Home Destroyed in Fire

On New Year’s Eve 2022, The Barrasso Family experienced an unthinkable tragedy. Just two minutes before midnight, the Bellingham Fire Department responded to reports of smoke at The Barrasso’s condominium on Bucky Drive. Fortunately, Rachael Barrasso and her two children were not home at the time. First responders were able to stop the flames from spreading to nearby units but their home was completely destroyed and their dog Gladys perished in the fire.

Rachael and her children are heartsick over the loss of their pet and the total destruction of their personal property. They have been forced to seek shelter in a one bedroom apartment owned by Rachael’s mother but are cramped and concerned over limited resources.

Rachael’s 12 year old son and 15 year old daughter have had to face incredible loss in the face of this disaster. She does not want to compound their grief by moving away and separating them from their teachers and friends in The Bellingham School system.

Financial roadblocks have encumbered Rachael’s search for suitable housing. Short term rentals are expensive and would quickly drain the family’s resources.

We are asking for donations to help Rachael afford reasonable housing, maintain stability for her young children and repurchase basic necessities such as clothing, school supplies, bedding toiletries and groceries.

The Barrasso Family will never be able to replace what they have lost…their beloved pet, precious photographs, letters and cherished possessions. But we have the power as a community, as their friends and as fellow humans to help them start anew. We have the capacity to foster healing and offer a hand in rebuilding the life they deserve.

The Barrasso Family would like to thank you in advance for your donations, generosity and support.