Stamford family still living in tents months after house fire

STAMFORD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – For some families camping in the backyard can be a fun summer activity for the kids, but for one family in Stamford it’s their reality. The Burris family lost their home to a house fire they say was caused by an electrical problem the early morning hours of March 28. Jessica Burris shares they are a family of five – her mother, husband, and two kids living with her.

“I heard a pop, a flash of light, and then the lights went out. They came and investigated, and it was the meter box that exploded,” shared Burris.

Although it’s not ideal to live in a tent, Jessica explains that as a low-income family, they are unable to afford a motel or a new place to live at this time. Living in the backyard allows them to save money to one day have a fresh start. Right now, they are unable to find assistance through their local housing authority that will accommodate their pets. Due to their unique situation, Burris’s two children were placed under the care of Child Protective Services.

“Kind of rough because you know memories and stuff but to me that is how we been coping look bad see how lucky we were to even get out,” added Burris.

The family is using a carport, tarps, and various items that were salvageable to make a temporary place to stay in their backyard. Their home now serves as a reminder of what was lost.

“It’s hard having to start from scratch, and we got lucky I keep telling everybody that it was by the grace of God we even made it out alive,” said Burris.

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