Aid Bill Washington’s Family After Eaton Canyon Fire

Help Our Family Recover After the Altadena Fires

Dear friends, family, and community,

We are reaching out with heavy hearts and a humble request for help after the devastating Eaton Fires that ravaged our beloved town of Altadena. Our family, has lived in this community for over six decades, and the flames have taken everything we’ve worked for and cherished. But we are still standing, and with your contribution, we hope to cover unexpected costs to get us back on our feet.

Our story starts in the early 1960s when my great grandfather, Bill Washington, moved from Massillon, Ohio, and purchased the historic Jane’s Village home in Altadena. He was the second Black family to settle north of Altadena Drive, and this house has since been the foundation of our family. From my great-grandparents to my parents, my grandfather, my aunt, my brother, and myself, this home has been a place of love, hard work, and pride.

Altadena has always been a beacon of opportunity, particularly for Black families, when other areas in Los Angeles County were redlined. It’s here that we built our lives, contributed to the community, and watched as the town grow around us. Through all the struggles and triumphs, our home in Altadena has always been more than just a house—it’s a legacy.

The fire has stripped us of our earthly possessions, but not our strength or faith. We’ve lost everything, from irreplaceable family heirlooms to everyday essentials. While we are hard-working, prideful people who don’t seek handouts, we find ourselves at a loss, starting from the ground up.

We thank God that we are alive, and we are deeply grateful for your support. Altadena has been our home, our community, and our strength, and with your help we hope to address the many aspects of recovery and support our family through this crisis.

Thank you for your kindness, your prayers, and your donations. Together, we can rise from this tragedy, stronger than ever.

With gratitude,

The Washington Family