Martell Fire Recovery-Displaced 5 family members

Hello, my name is Nicole and I am reaching out seeking prayers and assistance for some very dear friends of ours. On Thursday February 22, 2024 my friend Tammy was cooking dinner. She heard the smoke alarm go off upstairs so she went to investigate. As she continued step by step, it began smelling like a fire. She started opening doors and realized there was a fire in her office. She immediately called 911 and began yelling for her son as she frantically looked around for 4 cats and 3 dogs. The fire spread rapidly. She yelled to her son to get Nana (97) out of her room and out to safety. She continued looking for their 3 dogs and 4 cats however, the fire began to fill the upstairs and the smoke became so thick that even the flashlight on her phone did not help. This is when she realized she needed to get out of the house. By the Grace of God, her family which includes her husband Victor, daughter Victoria, son Johnny and her Nana (97) were safe! Unfortunately one of their beloved dogs, Lily, succumbed to her injuries due to smoke inhalation. They were able to rescue 2 of their dogs and have found 2 cats. At this time, Minnie and Baby, their cats, are still missing. Currently they are in a small hotel as everything begins to take place. They lost most of their belongings which includes clothing, work computers, furniture, and more. The Martell family has a long road ahead of them as they are being told it will be 9-12 months before they are even able to consider going back home. First and foremost we are seeking prayer for the Martell Family. I am also asking for your help when it comes to helping the Martell Family relieve any financial stressors at this time. Whatever you are able to do would be incredibly appreciated. Tammy is someone who will drop everything she is doing to help those she cares for and loves. We are simply doing what Tammy would do.

Update 2/26/24- Tammy and family are still on the lookout for Minnie and Baby. They are still in a hotel room and are now finding it difficult to eat meals with the limited space they have. A Costco run is needed to stock 5 family members up on the necessary supplies needed for survival. The family has been talking with a few contractors and still working with insurance at this time. It’s been a very exhausting few days as one could imagine. The hotel is giving them a slightly difficult time telling them if the room smells of smoke due to the fire, they are responsible for a hefty fee. They have also told them they are unable to wash their clothes at their facility. The family is needing extra support at this time. Anything you are able to help with is extremely appreciated.

Update 3/2/24: There has been so much going on. Tammy is still completely worn out and the days seem to be dragging. The family just wants to be in their home but unfortunately this will not happen for 9-12 months. They have met with the insurance, inspectors and contractors over the past few days. They were allowed back into the house on an emergency order to see what they could take with them to the hotel. Some clothes were salvageable, however a company is working on cleaning them due to the fire and smoke. They are hopeful to each have a few outfits. At this time, the insurance company has NOT released any funds. The family could use food, drinks and whatever you’re willing to help with. At this time their home is being inventoried. They were told it will be a complete rebuild due to Fire and Water damage. As for now, they are in a 2bd hotel until April 1st. They need to find a home to rent that accepts dogs and cats. If anyone knows of anything, please let us know. Continued prayers are appreciated.

Update: March 11, 2024- Tammy and family have found another cat! Praise Jesus. They are still currently in a hotel, however are desperately looking for a home to rent that will allow pets in the Modesto/Riverbank area. Preferably a 1 story with 3/4 bedrooms. If you have ANY leads, please reach out! They also found their last cat, however, they are having difficult difficulties catching her. She is currently trapped inside of their garage. They currently have a company sifting through all of their belongings at this point in time in their home so they can begin to tear things down. Tammy is still under an immense amount of pressure and stress and is really struggling sleeping at night due to such a tragedy, that was so unexpected.

Please continue to share and donate if you can. Prayers are definitely appreciated! There are many different ways. You can help the Martell family at this time. We are so grateful for those who have donated and helped in other ways. Your prayers are definitely appreciated!

Update 3/25/24: Tammy, Victor and family are so close to moving into temporary housing!! Praise the Lord! The insurance will only cover so much at this point. The continued support and help has been wonderful! Both the family and myself thank you. All of their cats have been found and are at the hotel with them. Things have been moving forward with the insurance taking inventory of all that was lost in the home. This is still very devastating for the family. Please continue to share!