Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1546275
PINCH OF GOODNESS S T R A I G H T F R O M T H E H e a r t It was a frigid day in Chicago, Illinois, on March 16, 2026, when an arsonist set fire to an apartment building, unfazed by the devastating consequences. What started as small flames in the basement quickly grew to a heavy blaze, engulfing the entire three-story structure. Tj Howard, a charismatic Chicagoan, lived in that building. Although he survived, he lost everything. Clothes, furniture, household items, and special mementos were all destroyed. "I'm the son of a fireman, and it was an absolute childhood fear realized," he said. After returning to work, Tj learned about Associa Cares, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that assists families and communities in crisis following natural and man-made disasters. He applied for a grant. "Associa Cares put the people in front of the process. I was amazed by how easy it was to apply—no jumping through hoops in an emergency, when everything is significantly more stressful." Displaced from his home for a month, Tj lived in short-term rentals and slowly began rebuilding what he lost. "The money we received from Associa Cares helped us furnish a new apartment and get those small things that make life, life and an apartment, home." "Associa Cares really allowed us to say, 'we're ok'." Though grateful, Tj was most moved by the organization's support of a first responder. "A young fireman lost his life in that fire. I grew up knowing my father might not come home from work," he said tearfully. "What touched me was that Associa Cares donated money to the fireman's fund. I didn't ask. They just donated." "This is a great organization that has helped my family and me, and I think it impacts a lot more people than many of us know." Associa Cares has assisted more than 4,500 families since 2005. Countless lives have been changed. If you or someone you know has been affected by a disaster or if you'd like to donate to Associa Cares, please visit www.associacares.org. Visit us on Instagram @cominghomemag to learn more about Tj's story. How one organization helped a fire victim rebuild his life. 8 COMING HOME MAGAZINE