Toalepai Family Displaced by SE Portland Fire

Fire spreads to 3 units in tri-plex in SE Portland

On September 17th, 2022, an early morning house fire in SE Portland ravaged through the apartment complex that the Toalepais have called home for almost 10 years. It displaced this family of 5 and cause irreparable damage to almost all of their belongings. Much of what wasn't burned was damaged by smoke or water from the fire suppression, and of what was left, other things were stolen or damaged by break-ins and looters. A month and a half has passed and the financial and emotional losses still weigh heavy on their family. They lost the place they call home, their furniture, clothing, electronics, memorabilia, and more. The Toalepais have been staying with family and friends and are trying to look for other suitable housing options in this difficult housing market.

Originally from Hawai'i and Las Vegas, the Toalepais have been a pillar in the local Portland community for over a decade, and have always been there to support and uplift others in times of need. The family who never asks for anything now needs our help. Their 'ohana/aiga was just beginning to recover from the effects of COVID-19 and loss of income, and this fire happened at the same time that they were preparing for their daughter's 18th birthday. Thankfully their 3 daughters weren't home this night and their parents made it out safely, grabbing only what they could carry as they evacuated their home.

Insurance hasn't paid anything, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. The fire started in the unit at the other end of the tri-plex and quickly spread throughout, engulfing the 2nd floor of the Toalepai's apartment. The funds will be used to cover the costs of new housing, security deposit, new furniture, clothes, shoes, food, and other necessities.