Help Laura, Peter, Simon & Finley Recover After Eaton Fire

On Wednesday, January 8th, life changed forever for our dear friends Laura, Peter, and their two children, Simon and Finley. The Eaton Fire swept through their neighborhood in Altadena, destroying their home and the Olive avenue community they hold so dear to their heart.

Thankfully, the family was able to evacuate in time, but with little more than the clothes on their backs. They have since been on the move—staying with friends, finding shelter, while processing this new devastating reality.

As they navigate this heartbreaking chapter, Laura and Peter remain focused on keeping their family - and local community - safe and supported. They are filled with gratitude for the first responders and the friends who have opened their doors to help. But the road ahead is long, and they will need our help.

We are raising $50,000 to assist them with the expenses insurance or FEMA won't cover:

Temporary Housing: Finding a stable place to live while they figure out their long-term plans.

Replacing Essentials: Clothing, school supplies for Simon and Finley, toys, toiletries, and other everyday items they lost in the fire.

Help them - and their neighbors - recover: Over the next few weeks and months, they'll need support to face what's ahead. Funds will also contribute to support other neighbors in need. Simon and Finley's elementary school, Mary W Jackson Elementary PTA, has also put together a donation form for families in need that you can also contribute to (from clothing, to supplies, food, toiletry, home goods, etc).

The McPherson Willis Family stands and solidarity with their Neighbors and Altadena and also wants to share this resource to directly help support displaced black families: Displaced Black Families GoFundMe list

This family has always been a source of kindness, warmth, and generosity for those around them. Now, it’s our turn to support them in their time of need. Whether it’s a donation, sharing this fundraiser with your network, or simply sending words of encouragement, every little bit helps.

Let’s come together to give Laura, Peter, Simon, and Finley the stability and hope they need as they begin the difficult process of getting back on their feet.

Thank you for standing with them.

With love and gratitude,

Nikki, Mag, Friends & The Willis and MacPherson Family

The Willis, photo taken at Loma Alta Park:

The lovely Olive ave. house before the fire.... nothing is left: