A local nonprofit is helping families in the Rio Grande Valley get through tough times after tragedy strikes.

The organization is called Strides for Fany. Valley native Nahiely Garcia founded it after her sister died in a 2013 home invasion and arson case.

Garcia now lives in Hawaii, but the mission she started in the Valley remains the same. Strides for Fany Vice President Joe Martinez and board member Moises Robledo spoke on her behalf.

"Through the pain and through the suffering, she gave it purpose and created this," Martinez said.

The organization steps in to connect people with resources after a tragedy, whether or not a crime was involved. That help can come in many forms.

"The plan goes around whatever need is there. It could be monetary, it could be just getting them in contact with resources that are available," Robledo said.

Martinez said the group fills a gap many people don't know exists.

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"Tragedy strikes unexpectedly and most of the times the victims don't know where to go, so that's where our organization comes in, a place to go to, to seek resources, help or to network with other places that can help them," Martinez said.

Next month, the organization plans to help a San Juan homeowner who lost two family members in a house fire last year. The homeowner reached out to Strides for Fany for help clearing out the area where her home once stood.

"We're going to do a clean up day on October 10, we're going to be here and we're looking for volunteers; anybody that's willing to help is gladly welcomed," Martinez said.

Robledo said the work comes down to people showing up for each other.

"It's the people, it's all about the people working together, everybody has talent, everybody has resources, everybody has power and when you come together as a community, you can do anything," Robledo said.

"Us being a helping hand, is our purpose, our reason, because we've all been there," Martinez said.

For more information, contact stridesforfany@gmail.com

Strides for Fany is Made in the 956.

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