Fundraiser for Window Washers
ORINDA, Calif. (KCBS) It's money well spent. That's what those who buy and sell at the Orinda Farmers' Market are saying about a fundraiser following a public tragedy last month.
Barbara Kobsar, who sells local jams and jellies under the Cottage Kitchen label, was one of the merchants closest to the action when a pair of window washers in a lift device came into contact with overhead power lines on June 5.
"None of us paid attention until there was a huge explosion," said Kobsar. "And, from that moment on, we've all been affected."
Podcast
The tragedy killed 51-year-old Jose Herrera and badly burned 30-year-old Eduardo Guerra.
Market manager Janice Faust said about $5,000 has already been raised for the two families so far.
"I heard that there was no life insurance for the gentleman who died. He has older kids and a wife," said Faust. "And the younger man who is still in serious condition, last I heard, has a 3-year-old and a baby on the way. And workman's comp when you're a window washer, I don't imagine it's going to be a lot of money. So there's a great need."
The tax deductible donations are being administered through the Valley Medical Center in San Jose, where Guerra remains hospitalized.
