Mendoza Family Fire

 

Hi, my name is Jazmin Mendoza-Ortega. I am writing on behalf of my parents, Washington Mendoza and Betty Ortega. My family has always been a tight-knit family, and the meeting point of our family has been my parents' home. My family loves giving back to the community in any way they can and have never asked for anything in return. My parents have worked hard to fulfill their goals of creating a home for my family, where we can all join together and have fun. This is why I am making this account for them.

 

 

Today, January 17, 2022, our home since 2005 has caught on fire. I was home alone as I woke up and heard my dog, Stella, bark. As I tried to find the source, I noticed that my whole backyard was on fire. Immediately, I grabbed Stella and ran out the door to call 911 in the cold. The damage due to the fire was extensive, and the water damage has taken over the rest of the house. The basement is flooded, and the ceilings are caving near the kitchen area. My family tried to get together and salvage what we could, but so much had already been damaged.

 

 

 

Let me tell you about the family that needs your help.

 

My mother was an Ecuadorian immigrant who has worked every day since she came to this country in her late 20s. She has worked in many places and recently studied to become a CNA. She worked throughout the pandemic at nursing homes, trying to help those there. She works every day to help the elderly, separated from their families due to Covid, feel at home.

 

My father worked as a teacher for those families who lived in the Amazonian forest and currently works in maintenance in Grace Church. He works tirelessly to help our family. If any of my cousins or siblings have troubles, my father is the first one there to lend a helping hand. My father loves to tell his stories of his country to anyone willing to listen and help everyone around him.

 

With the fire, my family has seen all they have worked for since coming to this country go up in ashes. We are asking for any help we can receive. Please consider donating whatever you can. Even the smallest amount can help us. These next few months are going to be filled with obstacles and challenges. Even a thought, prayer, or text will mean the world to us and give us the courage and strength to continue this journey.