Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'oon: "To God we belong and surely to Him we return."

In the early morning of Saturday, April 17th, the lives of a loving family and an entire community were changed forever when Esam Nagi, husband, father and  his 1 ½ year old daughter, Aliyah were killed in a house fire in East Oakland. ​​This house was home to a large Muslim family who were observing the blessed month of Ramadan, when suddenly the house became engulfed in flames. Most of the family were able to escape the fire, including Esam, but he realized his pregnant wife, disabled mother in law and daughter remained in the blazing home. 

He returned to assist his trapped family, while his mother in law and wife escaped- Esam and Aliyah were overwhelmed by the smoke and flames and tragically did not make it out. Esam’s body was later found in the home with his daughter in his arms. Esam is a hero who risked his life to save his family.

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​Esam created a home for everyone:

Esam Nagi fled Yemen five years ago, married the love of his life and has since settled in Oakland with his wife, daughter Aliyah and extended family. Esam was the sole provider for his family.

Esam’s family home has always had an open door policy for loved ones and community members. In fact at the time the fire broke out Esam was providing for 15 family members at the house. This is a community centered family, who has long since been a huge part of Oakland.  This tragedy has impacted this family, their neighbors and the whole community. 

​We Need Your Support

There are many opportunities for everyone to assist during these trying times, especially to help cover living expenses and to provide some relief for the family so they can mourn their loss without worrying about the increasing short and long-term expenses after the shocking tragedy. The more that this campaign can collect, the easier it will be on the family. 

Please contribute whatever you are able to, every single cent is sincerely appreciated and will make a difference. There are also other ways you can help this cause: 

- Share the LaunchGood campaign on your social media platforms. 

-Follow this FB page for updates: https://www.facebook.com/EsamsFamily

- Keep them in your dua's this Ramadan 

May God protect and preserve Esam’s family, his pregnant wife and increase them in faith and patience. Ameen.

 May Allah Bless and Accept from You All,

Esam’s Family 

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