Helping the Desouza Family Rebuild

We are the Desouza family, which consists of my mother (Solange Desouza) and myself (Sophia Young). My mom has been raising me on her own as a single mother since I was six years old, working tirelessly as a teacher for PUSD for 28 years to ensure I never had to struggle growing up.

Many of you may know my mom, whether as your 6th-grade, 4th-grade, or 8th-grade teacher, or simply as a kind and compassionate person. She has touched so many lives through her work and helped so many people always prioritizing others over herself. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she immigrated to the United States at the age of 28 working as a full-time babysitter to afford her education at Azusa Pacific University and Cal Poly Pomona. Eventually achieving her dream of becoming a teacher and getting her Master’s degree in education. My mother’s life in Brazil was incredibly difficult—she grew up in the slums, often without shoes or hot water. Despite her hardships, she worked relentlessly to buy our house so that I could grow up with a safe and stable home, something she never had.

Today, we learned that our house has been destroyed by the Eaton Canyon fire. Many of you may remember my mom’s elaborate outfits, her high heels and matching skirts were always a staple in her wardrobe. But unfortunately, overnight, she has lost all of that. In our process of evacuation we were unable to save to majority of our clothes, photo albums, schoolwork, and other necessities. My mom has always been a pillar of kindness and selflessness, often staying up until 1 a.m. to ensure her students receive the best education possible. As you know, teachers aren’t paid nearly enough, and rebuilding everything we’ve lost is an overwhelming and unexpected challenge we never thought we would have to face.

We’re not asking anyone to feel obligated to donate, but if you’re able to help in any way, it would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading and for any support you can offer.