UPDATE:

Please read this update from Lalaine:

Our family is coping, taking each day as it comes. The outpouring of love and support from our community and their families/friends has been truly overwhelming, and we feel incredibly blessed to have such generous and caring people in our lives. Your contribution has made a tangible difference in our ability to keep up with our daily expenses and ability to help others as well. Your generosity and thoughtfulness have been instrumental in helping us navigate this incredibly challenging time.

Your kindness and generosity are gifts that we will cherish always. We continue to hold in our prayers not only our family but also all those affected by this devastating event. We're so thankful for your continued support and thoughts. God will bless you thousandfold.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Lalaine and Family

Background:

Lalaine Buenaluz is our dear friend and coworker, and in January she and her family experienced a devastating loss

Lalaine and her husband have three children, Ashley, Darin, and Andres. Andres is currently an 8th grade student, while Darin and Ashley are in college. They have unfortunately lost their home, all of their possessions, and their vehicle.

Lalaine is one of the kindest, most genuine people we know. Lalaine began working for Arcadia Unified School District in 2010. She started as a substitute Health Clerk before transitioning to the role of a part-time Health Office Assistant at Longley Way, and then later to a full-time Health Assistant at Hugo Reid Primary School. She has served compassionately in our special day classrooms, has volunteered to work in the COVID-19 Call Center, and has even worked as a Health Office Assistant for K-camp.

Lalaine is a gift to the students, staff, and entire Arcadia Unified community. Lalaine has a unique gift of developing deep, meaningful relationships, and provides her students and families with highly individualized and compassionate care. She is a fierce advocate for student and staff safety and goes the extra mile time and time again. Over the past thirteen years she has touched countless lives.

We are devastated to hear of her family’s loss. Lalaine is a shining light in our community. Please consider donating, any amount can help her family to purchase necessary food, clothing, supplies, and to get back on their feet.

(This fundraiser is being organized by the Health Services team, from Arcadia, CA)