SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – A San Francisco neighborhood came together on Sunday to gather donations for a beloved community dog walker who lost his home in a fire on Tuesday. It’s just the latest challenge Terry Williams has had to face after receiving several racist packages at his home near Alamo Square last month.

“It feels real good you know all the love, all my neighbors and friends showing up, writing letters on the garage,” said Terry Williams.

Williams, who lives with his parents, was not at home when the fire broke out. Williams’ parents were rescued by firefighters from the upper floors of the three-story residence. The home has since been red tagged. 

On Sunday, neighbors held a block party fundraiser for the family, dropping off supplies and clothing.  

“I just felt like I needed to do something. He is like the Mayor of Alamo Square, so everybody knows him,” said neighbor Clarice Torrey. “He has been such a great neighbor. He has stopped a break in for me, and he’s moved my car for street sweeping.”

Beloved Alamo Square dog walker Terry Williams during a May 11 rally in support of him and his family. 

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“It’s a lot, but I’m trying to be strong, but in moments I do break down,” said Williams. 

Last month, he received two racist packages, including a black doll with a noose wrapped around its neck. San Francisco Police are now investigating both deliveries as hate crimes. 

Meantime, officials said it could be months before they can determine what caused the fire. 

Michelle Jeffers, chief of community programs and partnerships for the city’s public library, said Sunday would be her first Carnaval, and pointed to her parade float members preparing for the day’s displays of community presence. 

Many on the float work at the Mission branch’s temporary site on Valencia Street between 23rd and 24th streets during the original location’s renovation, which is due to finish in 2025.

“We’re trying to stay hydrated, getting our scarves ready, and we’ve got our ride,” Jeffers said, pointing to one of the library’s bookmobiles. “We just love a parade!”

Sunday’s parade followed a Carnaval festival that began Saturday along several blocks of Harrison Street, featuring music, dancing, food and crafts.

Musical headliners included Mexican singer Noel Torres, Latin fusion group Pirulo Y La Tribu and Honduran band Banda Blanca blending merengue and punta sounds. Cuban Latin pop star Franco was also set to perform. Previous headliners have included Santana, Tower of Power, Los Lonely Boys, Celia Cruz, Los Tigres del Norte and Tito Puente.

The festival typically draws 400,000 people, according to local organizers, and generates about $10 million for local businesses.