Help the Shipin-Finley Family Recover from LA Fires

Shanna, John, their two little girls - Rowen and Sadie - and their dog, Wednesday, were forced to evacuate their home due to the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena/Pasadena. The family lived mere blocks away from the worst of the devastation (New York/Lake Ave) and they grabbed their family and ran.

The house they are renting is still standing, but was downwind from the fire and the smoke and ash ran through the house destroying almost everything in it. Their belongings are unsalvageable due to the smoke damage.

When they were allowed to briefly return home a few days ago to try to collect some essentials and favorite toys they discovered everything covered in toxic soot and the true extent of the damage became a reality.

Even staying in the area is not possible as Rowen has respiratory issues and Sadie is 3 months old. There is also no drinkable water. They cannot return home anytime soon.

Their three year old, being the smart and cautious first-born, has been concerned but handling things well as they move from family’s couches to hotel rooms to AirBnbs while they figure out what’s next and find a place to relocate long term.

Their family has been building a wonderful life in Pasadena and the LA area - Shanna being a LA native has family and a support system there so they had moved back after several years on the East Coast. They have come to love Rowen’s school and teachers, going to HomeState for tacos after swim lessons, visiting the botanical gardens, and hosting their large family for birthdays, holidays, and good meals at their home. They welcomed their second daughter Sadie in September and had started to settle into their beautiful life there.

People have been reaching out to us, their family, asking for ways they can support, which truly shows what an amazing community they have built around them.

If you have leads on any specific items that you believe will help the Shipin-Finleys, please reach out to Anna to arrange. Everything will need to be replaced - from strollers to baby clothing to furniture. Otherwise, monetary donations will go directly to John and Shanna and help alleviate some of their burdens so they can heal and plan for the future with their beautiful girls.

*This GoFundMe is hosted by Anna Lemberger (sister to John Finley) who is based in Washington, D.C.