Help Gisela & Timothy’s Family Rebuild After Wildfires

My name is Andrea Stefens, and I’m reaching out on behalf of my best friend of over 30 years, Gisela Birnschein.

Gisela is more than a friend to me—she’s family. She is the beloved godmother to my daughters and has always been a constant source of love, support, and kindness to everyone who knows her.

Now, Gisela and her family are facing an unimaginably difficult situation and need our help.

The devastating California wildfires have taken everything from them but their grit and unending optimism. They lived in a sweet little cabin in the hills of Altadena and had recently invested all their financial resources into much-needed renovations. Now, the status of their home is uncertain; even if it still stands, they cannot return anytime soon.

In the chaos of fleeing the fire in the middle of the night, Gisela, her husband Timothy, and their two sons, Gabriel (15) and Raphael (13), left with only the clothes on their backs, their cats, and a few basic necessities.

They are currently staying in a hotel, living day to day and unsure of what the future holds. They need everything—clothes, food, shelter, and support—as they begin the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives from the ground up.

This incredible family has brought so much love and light to others over the years. Now, it’s our chance to give back to them in their time of need.

Any donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference. Your generosity will help Gisela, Timothy, Gabriel, and Raphael regain stability and move forward during this incredibly challenging time.

$500 will help them with a hotel stay until they can find a more permanent place

$250 will make sure they have food for a week, including their cats

$100 will give them some thrift shop money to get clothes and shoes

$50 will get a tank of gas in one of their cars

$25 will make sure they can treat the boys to much needed anti-stress treats like a hot chocolate, etc.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family. Every share helps spread the word and brings them closer to the support they need.

I will keep this page updated with their progress and any developments. On behalf of Gisela and her family, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, generosity, and support.