Help Bart & Cindi Young Rebuild After the Palisades Fire

This week, my parents, Bart and Cindi Young, experienced a tragedy that no one ever imagines: the loss of their home in the Palisades fire. The fire started mid-morning, and by early afternoon, my mom was told she had to evacuate immediately. She left with just the clothes on her back, her cell phone, and their beloved dog, Missy. My dad, who was at work at the time, narrowly avoided the devastation, and while one car and a laptop survived, their home and nearly everything they’ve built over a lifetime is gone.

My parents have always been pillars of their community. My mom, Cindi, was recently honored as Citizen of the Year by Pacific Palisades for her tireless work helping the homeless. She’s one of the most giving people I know, always finding ways to serve others. My dad, Bart, is a small business owner who has dedicated decades to his work and to providing for his family. They have opened their doors and hearts to countless people over the years, never asking for anything in return. Now, at 74 and 73, they face the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives from scratch.

This is a profoundly difficult time for them, not just emotionally but financially. Retired and on a fixed income, rebuilding their home and lives won’t be quick or easy. And for people who have spent their lives giving, being on the receiving end is unfamiliar and humbling.

We are asking our extended community—friends, family, and neighbors—to come together to help Bart and Cindi in this moment of need. Any contribution, no matter the size, will provide them with the stability and support they need to navigate the road ahead. From replacing basic essentials to securing temporary housing, your kindness will make an enormous difference in their recovery.

If you know my parents, you know they’ve always been the first to offer help to others. Now, it’s our turn to show them the same love and generosity. Thank you for supporting Bart and Cindi as they begin this challenging journey of rebuilding and healing.

With gratitude,

Robyn DeTorres-Young