In times of crisis, it’s the people who rally around you that can make all the difference. In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, a California neighborhood is coming together to support a couple whose home was recently burglarized. The couple, both teachers, had been away on a school trip.
Karen Pollard and Rick Gott, dedicated teachers from Natomas Charter School, were on a three-day excursion to a Shakespeare festival in Ashland, OR, with 40 students when they received the devastating news. The burglars, striking on October 8, took more than just material possessions. Clothes, electronics, and even Rick’s cherished guitars were among the stolen items. “That doesn’t include the teacups, it doesn’t include the tax returns, all of our identity stuff,” Karen said.
There’s no value on that, but my seven-page list is over $25,000.”
The emotional toll was significant, “There are empty spaces in your house that you don’t recognize, and little by little, you start realizing, this is major,” she said. The losses extended beyond the tangible, including sentimental items like teacups and important documents like tax returns. Pollard’s seven-page list of stolen items has left the couple grappling with the violation and grief of irreplaceable losses.
A damaged cabinet that robbers took a TV from. Photo from ABC 10
Despite the challenges, the community response has been nothing short of uplifting. A co-worker, Sarah Winter, recognizing the couple’s 25 years of selfless dedication to their students and community, set up a GoFundMe campaign. The initiative has garnered over $9,400 within days of its creation, showcasing the power of collective support in times of need, as well as the love the community has for their teachers.
Karen Pollard and Rick Gott. Photo from GoFundMe
“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together to support Rick and Karen during this difficult time,” Sarah wrote in the post. “In situations like these, the power of community support can make a significant difference. This is just one small way we can give back to them everything they have done for others.” Police have no leads yet, but encourage the public to call with any information. For the couple, this has been a horrible time for them, but it was made all the easier to deal with because of their friends and community.
“This was a devastating, life-altering crime and the loss involved continues to surprise us every day. But the outpouring of love and generosity we are receiving from our community is far outweighing the sadness we are experiencing. Our colleagues and community have lifted us up and it is energizing us and giving us so much joy. We know we will be just fine.” Watch below to see this amazing community rally around their favorite teachers.
