PORTLAND, Oregon — A single mother of three lost everything in a house fire in Southeast Portland on Aug. 14.
“I just was literally at the stop sign and seen my house was on fire,” said Quan'Naejia Taylor.
Taylor and her 11-month-old son were returning from a dinner run, as smoke poured from her bedroom window on Southeast 85th Avenue and Southeast Raymond Court.
“I ran outside and all the neighbors were already on the phones and stuff," said Taylor. "I just collapsed. I just passed out."
Taylor's two daughters, ages five and nine, were with family members at the time, so no one was hurt. But within hours, Taylor realized that everything she owned had either been burned or ruined by smoke. She doesn't have renters insurance.
“I don't know what to think or feel,” said Taylor. “I don't know. I'm just scared.”
The young mother of three said her kids are her priority. She's taking time off work to rebuild her life and create stability for them. For now, Taylor said she's staying with family while searching for a new home.
“My goal is to find somewhere before the start of school but if not, I'll be patient,” she said. “I'm just blessed that me and my son weren’t in the fire."
As for how the fire started, Taylor said she suspects an air conditioning unit is to blame. A spokesperson with Portland Fire & Rescue told KGW the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Loved ones started this GoFundMe for Taylor. She said she's grateful for every donation and hopeful that her family can find their new normal, soon.
“I hate asking for help,” said Taylor, through tears. “So I really appreciate it.”