It’s the worst tragedy a family could ever imagine during Christmas time – Greg and April Tonoukouin returned to their Antelope home on a Friday evening to find a fire had ravaged not only their entire home – but one of their vehicles. It was a home the couple had made memories in for six years. Now it was time to comb through the ashes to see if anything was salvageable.
It was less than two weeks before Christmas. But through the connection of a pair of first graders, and a community full of compassion, the Tonoukin’s are experiencing just what this season is all about.
Olivia Estrella, six, daughter to Mark and Rebecca Estrella immediately thought to do something to give. Inspired by her friendship with Greg and April’s six year old daughter Maia, it was more than just a neighborly gesture – it was the catalyst that spurred giving from the whole neighborhood. "The neighborhood really made this happen," says mom, Rebecca Estrella.
The day after the fire Olivia joined up with another playmate, nine year old Sierra and the pair took up shop on Pepperidge Way. Meanwhile Greg, April and Mya made the nearby Holiday Inn their new home. April is a teacher at nearby American River College while Greg recently started a business on Arden Way. Both were touched by the girl’s determination to help. In the end, Olivia and Sierra were able to raise 500 dollars in gift cards and cash donations in one afternoon.
Donations are being accepted at Umpqua Bank in Antelope (corner of Walerga and Elverta) for the "Tonoukouin" family.
Their home on Copper Canyon Way was badly damaged by a fire on December 14th and they are currently displaced. Cash deposits can be made in person at Umpqua Bank to the account name of: "For the Benefit of the Tonoukouin family"
Thank you for your kindness and generosity for our neighbors.
For more information please call: (916) 745-7101. Please make checks payable to: The Tonoukouin Family.