Sturm family Elk, Wa wildfire recovery

Hi Everyone,

My name is Joanna Sturm and I'm fundraising for my brother, Jeromy, and his family. On Friday, 8/20/23, multiple wildfires sprang up in the areas surrounding Spokane, Washington. Fueled by high winds and hot, dry temperatures, they quickly turned massively destructive prompting large evacuations of entire communities. Jeromy's house on East Bridges was one of the first lost in the Oregon Road fire. Like many of the neighboring properties in Elk, Washington, theirs was not insured due to age and location. With only ten minutes to evacuate, grabbing pets and vehicles was nearly all they could do. Jeromy even left his wallet, so they spent the evening in the parking lot of Watson's Market waiting to hear on status of the property. Allowed to return to the area in the morning, Jeromy, Kerri, and Jonathan found only the twisted, metal frame of their beloved home. Since then, looting has been reported despite patrols by law enforcement. Jeromy is the consummate family man and had moved to a house in the woods to spend time gardening, fishing with Jonathan, and enjoying the area's wildlife. Jonathan just graduated from Riverside high school and is looking forward to a trade school to perfect his welding skills. Kerri spent her home time decorating, redecorating and decorating again for every holiday, season, and life event. We are so glad that they are safe and settled with us, but Jeromy, Kerri, and Jonathan are anxious to begin the rebuilding process. They plan to clear the wreckage and start over. I have created this fundraiser to not only replace lost possessions, but to help them with a downpayment on a mortgage, and to replace Jonathan's burned vehicle so he can go to school and work. Since everything is gone, any amount is appreciated. I know the world is full of giving, amazing people and Jeromy, Kerri, and Jonathan are deserving of your gifts.