Help Toy & GIFT Rebuild After Eaton Fire Tragedy.

Help Me Rebuild After the Eaton Fire in Altadena

Hi, my name is Toy Washington I’m reaching out for support after being severely impacted by the Eaton Fire in Altadena—one of the largest natural disasters in U.S. history. Although my apartment building still stands, toxic smoke damage has rendered it unlivable. This means I’m now displaced, facing the loss of nearly everything I own, including personal belongings, furniture and essential appliances.

My Story

I’m 55 years old and was recently diagnosed with Autism (Asperger’s syndrome.) After experiencing homelessness two years ago, I finally found stability in Altadena—a place I’ve always dreamed of calling home. But now, caught in between jobs when the Eaton Fire struck, I’m forced to live in a hotel while I work to rebuild my life. I’m losing 95% of my belongings—from clothing, books, and papers to appliances that are critical for daily living.

Impact on My Community

In addition to my personal losses, I serve as a volunteer for an organization called GIFT. Every year, we host a concert of praise and worship for The Most High God that features a “Children’s Village”—a safe play area with a rented jumper, carnival-style games, and art activities for kids. 

https://youtu.be/-o_G4vdGfuM

Last year, we invested about $2500 in decorations, balloons, pop-up tents (including walls and table covers), and various games like toss games, basketball shootouts, football & baseball toss, frisbee golf course, large Jenga, and art activities. This year, we planned to add a new project—blank T-shirts for kids to decorate with permanent markers.

Unfortunately, due to the toxic residue from the fire, all these items are now at risk. We don’t want our children playing with anything unsafe, and replacing these supplies is a challenge amid my own personal crisis.

How Your Support Will Help 

 The funds raised will help me: 

 • Recover from this unexpected hardship 

 • Regain stability during this difficult time 

 • Move forward as I work to rebuild my life 

 • Address urgent and ongoing needs

 • Rebuilding Community Spaces: Restoring the supplies needed for GIFT’s Children’s Village so our annual event can continue safely, giving kids a joyful and secure place to play.

Every contribution—big or small—brings me one step closer to rebuilding my life and ensuring a safe, uplifting environment for our community’s children. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign would also mean the world to me.

#Altadena #Eatonfire #LAFire #ALTADENASTRONG #PASADENASTRONG #EatonCanyon #wildfirevictimadvocates #wildfire

Thank you for your kindness and support.

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