House Fire Recovery for Steven and Andrea Beyer

On 12/2/22, my parents, Steven and Andrea Beyer, survived a serious fire in their house of 44 years. My father was able to get himself and my mother out of the 2nd story bedroom and to the safety of the yard despite both of them having mobility limitations. They have lost nearly everything they had, including their 2 loving cats and are struggling to find a sense of stability after this trauma. The house needs extensive repairs and renovations and is unlivable for the foreseeable future. My mom is currently resting in a short-term rental near me while my dad is recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in the fire. I’m asking for financial support to get them set up in accessible housing for the next couple of months, where they can begin to plan for the next steps. They have serious health concerns that result in dietary restrictions, mobility issues (Dad uses a cane while Mom uses a wheelchair), and other special equipment to live independently. Insurance will eventually help to cover some of these costs, and the Red Cross has been of great assistance, but the resources available do not begin to cover all their needs as we rebuild a life for them from scratch, and the immediate necessities are adding up quickly.

It's hard to imagine this Christmas without the backdrop of my childhood home. Through the years, it was the place everyone came together - mom decorated it eclectically to create a magical labyrinth of lights and holiday décor. Our holiday gatherings were full of spirit, joy, song, friendship, and warmth on cold December nights. My parents created so many special memories there. Mom once turned the backyard into an aquarium, a space station, and a haunted house, bringing much joy to me and my friends. Her passion for gardening along with a production designer’s eye for interiors, made the house unique and welcoming. Dad created and installed the brick walkway from the front door to the sidewalk and put in the entire roof by himself. I painted the full exterior of the house twice as a young man to earn my stay. As a family, we have put ourselves into this home – for 44 years it has been Mom and Dad’s sanctuary, especially in recent years as they have aged.

Mom and Dad have never liked to ask for anything (even when they probably should have), but they are dealing with devastating circumstances. They are good people with hearts of gold who have dedicated their lives to educating themselves and others in numerous areas. Dad taught for nearly 50 years, starting with the NYC Board of Education and moving to the College of Staten Island and the Community College of Manhattan. He was also the longest-serving staff member of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, where he lectured astronomy "under the dome" to thousands of people over the years. Mom worked at the Staten Island Children's Museum at Snug Harbor, the Staten Island Zoo, and the Staten Island Museum. She is also a member of the women's philanthropic organization PEO, which assists young women in pursuing education and reaching their career goals. They are most deserving of some help now from others.

Any amount you can contribute would be immensely appreciated!

Sincerely,

Eric Beyer