Ryan Horsham and her family lost everything.
When a fire devoured the entirety of a DeKalb County apartment building a week ago, injuring 18 residents and even forcing some to jump from third-floor windows, Horsham and her loved ones were among the 43 people displaced.
When she and the others arrived at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church on Friday afternoon, she said she had no idea why they were there, only that she was told to come.
Immediately after finding out she would be walking out with $1,000, necessities like food and toiletries and toys for her children, she had only one word to describe the moment as her nephew, 1-year-old Kash’mir, tossed around his new football: “Blessed.”
Despite having just lost everything, from a place to live to every belonging big or small, the families receiving Friday’s donations were abounding with gratitude.
Each took home the same as Horsham: $500 from New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, $500 and a box of toys and food from The Ludacris Foundation, and everything from shampoo to toilet paper donated by the employees of a local CVS.
Even though the families were more than thankful for the gifts they received days before Christmas, many are still looking for places to live and rebuilding their lives. Losing everything isn’t easy, as Horsham put it.
“Every day I cry and tell myself, ‘I’m gonna wake up, I’m gonna wake up, I’m gonna wake up,’ but this is our new normal,’” she said.
Credit: Ada Wood
Credit: Ada Wood
Surrounded by her young daughter, nieces and nephews, Horsham recalled that the aftermath of the fire in Stonecrest was unimaginable. She wasn’t home when the fire started, but her sister managed to get everyone out safely.
“At first it was fear, because my child was there. Driving on the highway (on her way home), I knew they got out, but you just don’t know until you see it. It was a movie,” she said. “Some days are better than others. Some days I pick up the pieces, and some days I’m depressed.”
Erica Burns, her three kids, mother, brother and nephew, who lived in the same unit, were all present at Friday’s event. She said the fire spread so quickly they didn’t grab their phones, keys or even their shoes. They just did everything they could to get out safely.
“It’s been a tragedy, every day something new takes a toll on you. Of course you know you lost everything, but it doesn’t click in until each day comes by,” Burns said. “But our spirits are up, our faith is up and we will get through this. You have to move forward. It’s tough, but it’s the truth. I want to cry about it, but I’m going to remain strong for my children.”
Credit: Ada Wood
Credit: Ada Wood
John Peak, director of the Christian shelters ministry, began helping those in need the day after the fire. Now, the group has been able to aid 13 families, providing clothing, supplies and support through this time.
“We are blessed to be a blessing — to be able to bless others,” Peak said.
Below are links to donate to the families who were present for Friday’s event.
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