‘They brought love’: Parents of kids lost in Kingsburg fire thank the community

SELMA, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – A fundraiser for the parents of two children who were lost in a Kingsburg fire was held in Selma Tuesday.

The fundraiser was organized by Beto, owner of Beto’s Mexican Food Restaurant. A raffle included three TVs, baskets, and necklaces.

Officials say they did not expect so many people to attend the fundraiser and sell their stuff to support the family. All the money from this fundraiser will be donated to the family— including the money coming from the other booths selling their belongings.

Carla and Vicente Reyes, the parents of the kids, are thankful for the community’s support during this time.

“All the support that the community has given us is overwhelming and very appreciated,” said Carla.

Carla says her kids brought light, love, and happiness to their lives even though they did not speak much.

“It was just sunshine with them. It was just… they didn’t speak much, and they did a lot without speaking,” she said.

Carla says she has been able to get through this situation thanks to her husband, who is being strong for both of them. She says she was dragged out while attempting to save her children from the fire.

Vicente says the situation has been difficult to assimilate.

“It feels like a nightmare,” said Vicente.

“One that we can’t wake up from… as much as we try,” said Carla.

Carla says she got burns on her legs and hands. She spent four days at the hospital and says her voice will not go back to normal after the incident .

The couple says they appreciate all the help coming from the community, which has helped them to keep going. Now, they are focused on saying goodbye to their children.

“Their last name was Reyes, which means kings, and we both want them to live as kings,” she said.

The funeral service will be held on April 8 at the Thomas-Marcom Funeral Home at 9 a.m. located at 2345 McCall Avenue in Selma. A mass will be held at noon at the Saint Joseph Catholic Church located at 2441 Dockery Avenue in Selma. The service will end at the cemetery between Floral and Thompson Avenues in Selma.

Carla and Vicente say everyone who helped them, even with a prayer, is welcome to attend the services. They ask those attending to wear white if they can.

A GoFundMe to support Vicente and Carla with funeral costs for both children is available. To donate, click here.

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