Support for Irene and Fernando Villar after the Eaton Fire

My name is Raquel Villar, daughter of Irene and Fernando Villar. Like many in our community, my parents lost nearly everything when the devastating fires destroyed our longtime home, 405 East Pine Street—which we lovingly called “Nana’s House.” For 25 years, it was a place where my brother, Rafael, and I grew up, and where my niece and nephew, Lucas and Kaia, later played in the same rooms and garden we once did. This house was never just four walls; it was a sanctuary that welcomed countless pets and family gatherings. Now, it lies in ruins, and we are grieving the loss of the home my parents hoped would be passed on to future generations.

Irene and Fernando first came to Los Angeles together as students in 1983, leaving everything behind in Brazil to pursue higher education at USC and build a life dedicated to helping others. After finishing their masters degrees, in 1989 they purchased their first home in the U.S., a condo in Pasadena on South Euclid Street (where I now call my home again many years later). With two young children, they then returned to USC to pursue their PhDs, and in 2000 were able to purchase our family's first house in Altadena — a milestone that symbolized everything they had worked so hard for.

As therapists, they spent years guiding others through hardships, never imagining they would one day in their 70s face the enormous challenge of starting over from scratch when they should be enjoying the fruits of their hard work.

We have been deeply moved by the kindness of our friends and community during this difficult time. Many have reached out asking how they can help, and in response, I’ve created this fundraiser. The funds will go toward helping my parents address unmet needs due to gaps in insurance coverage and other sources of aid. Any support you can give will go directly toward helping them and our beloved Altadena community rebuild, not just a house but a sense of home. Truly, anything helps!

While the fire took everything tangible, it didn’t take the love and history that filled those walls. We are doing our best to stay hopeful and look ahead, just as my parents did when they first arrived in Los Angeles with limited means and unlimited determination.

Thank you so much for your support as we piece together a new chapter for our family. We love you!