Franchisee Stories
DirectBuy of San Diego Donates to Local Fire Victim
Dan and Cathy Hartle from Ramona lost their home in the Cedar Fire of 2003. The Cedar Fire, driven by Santa Ana Winds, burned through 280,278 acres and destroyed 2,232 homes. The Hartles had just paid off their home when the Cedar Fire and blazed through their neighborhood. The Hartles weren’t aware that because they had paid off their home loan, the home was no longer covered under the existing insurance policy. The Hartles were forced to start over with nothing, and slowly begin to rebuild their home.
In what would likely be considered as a plot for a horror movie, the Hartles, while re-building their home, had to battle yet another wildfire. In October of 2007, the Witch Creek fires burned through the town of Ramona, and almost scorched their dreams of having a home again. Since their home was not complete, it was even more susceptible to catching fire. Neighbors joined around the Hartles’ home, battling the surrounding fire with hoses. They were determined to keep their neighbors’ home safe, and their determination paid off - the Hartles home remained untouched by the Witch Creek Fire.
Because of the enormous number of families in our area displaced by the fire, many business owners scrambled to provide assistance. As DirectBuy Owners, we knew we could help – after all, we owned a showroom where members could purchase nearly everything for in and around their homes. We donated $5,000 in merchandise and a DirectBuy membership to the Hartles.
Through our contribution, the Hartles will finally be able to complete their home. We are extremely happy to be able to help the Hartles close that chapter and begin a new one.