Help Laurie and Rafael Move Forward

Dear Friends, Family, and Community,

I’m creating this gofundme on behalf of my sweet and humble parents, Laurie and Rafael Gurvis, who just tragically lost their home to the devastating palisades fire on 1/8/25. They were able to safely evacuate with their pup Riga, and only a few personal belongings.

Their home of over 30 years, along with all their possessions and memories, are gone. They bought their home in the Marquez Knolls in 1991, as newly weds with a newborn, a tight budget, and aspirations to grow their family in the wholesome and tight kit community that is the Palisades. This is the home where they raised 3 kids, 3 dogs, and 4 grandchildren, with more on the way. As a former Pali-Elementary school teacher (Mrs. Gurvis) and a local Santa Monica dentist, my parents engaged with and served our beloved community throughout the last 30+ years they’ve lived here.

Our family is in complete shock and absolutely devastated at the loss of their home, possessions, and irreplaceable family heirlooms, though very grateful for their safety and health while evacuating.

We humbly ask you to join us in supporting my family through this difficult and unimaginable time. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Anything you can donate to help my parents with stability to recover, and to begin to heal, would mean the world to us.

Thank you.

With love,

the Gurvis Children (Jenna, Melissa, and Daniel)