The Krisses have returned to their old hometown to help their current hometown.
Filmmakers Kelly O’Neil Kriss and Jeremy Kriss grew up in Olympia but now live in Chico, California, near the site of the country’s deadliest wildfire in 100 years. Last November's Camp Fire in Paradise killed 88 and destroyed 14,000 structures.
The Krisses are holding a Washington state premiere of their film, “Something Horrible,” to help raise funds for fire survivors.
“The fire came within 15 yards of our house, but our house is fine,” said Jeremy Kriss. “We don't have a single friend who has a house anymore.”
All the proceeds from the ticket sales will go towards the Paradise Teachers’ Union.
Jeremy Kriss used to teach, and Kelly O’Neil Kriss is an assistant principal. They wanted to support the teachers who are helping Paradise’s youngest fire survivors get back to normal in makeshift classrooms around the region.
"They're just as traumatized and they have to show up every day for these kids,” said Kelly O’Neil Kriss. “They have to be that actor or actress and provide for those kids... ‘Yes, things are going to be fine. Look at me. I'm fine,’ When I know deep down, they're not fine."
The one-time screening starts at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Washington Center Main Stage in Olympia. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Donations for the teachers can be mailed to:
Teachers Association of Paradise
PO Box 7821
Chico, CA 95927
The Krisses also set up a GoFundMe for donations. Click here to donate.