Friday, April 26, 2024
COMMUNITY EFFORT: Gloria and Robert Canales stand in front of the rubble of what was once their home. Since the fire in October, community members have been working together to get the Canales family back on their feet by donating clothing and building a ramp for Gloria to use to get in their RV.
Brock’s Food & Drink is hosting a benefit from 12-7 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 16, for the Canales family, who recently lost their home in a fire.
On Friday, Oct. 23, a day of celebration turned into a day of devastation for Hood County residents Robert and Gloria Canales. The couple was attending a wedding party celebration with family and friends, but unfortunately, returned later to find the charred remains of what was once their home.
From a cause that is still undetermined, the house fire had destroyed all personal belongings and two storage sheds behind the house.
“The family has owned that property over 20 years,” said Rosanne Kayl, close neighbor and friend. “They lost all their personals and they had no insurance on the place.”
Luckily, the fire did not reach the Canales’ RV, although Gloria had to stay with her sister for the first several weeks after the incident because the RV didn’t have a ramp for her wheelchair. However, through the generous actions of StoneWater Church members, a ramp was built for Gloria so she could access her RV.
“In our neighborhood, some people helped them with some clothes and (other items),” Kayl said.
Gloria retired from Granbury ISD after teaching at Nettie Baccus Elementary School for 35 years, and Robert is the owner of a local plumbing company.
The couple also has health issues, as Gloria suffered from a major stroke in March, while Robert endures transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke.
“This is a community effort. It’s just really tough on them,” Kayl said.
The benefit at Brock’s Food & Drink (4021 Acton Highway) was set up by Kayl as a way to raise money to help the Canales family as they work to get back on their feet.
A $10 donation is required at the door, and 100% of all other proceeds will go to Robert and Gloria.
Donations are needed for a raffle, with tickets available at $1 each or six for $5.
The event will include live musical entertainment by Jerry Allen, Dave Bienik and R.A. Canales Y Extreme — a band featuring Robert’s brother, Roel.
Craft vendors are welcome to set up at the event for a $75 donation fee.
For individuals wanting to donate an auction or raffle item, they can bring it to Brock’s Food & Drink by 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event, or they can call Kayl at 817-964-7302 to schedule a pick-up time.
All checks will need to be made out to “Robert or Gloria Canales,” and all cash donations will be protected.
Kayl wants to thank Brock’s Food & Drink for hosting the event.
“The Canaleses mean an awful lot to the people in our neighborhood and everyone is eager to help them rebuild,” Kayl added. “These people have given a lot to the community. Let's give it back to them.”
