On January 8, 2025, the Eaton Fire in Altadena destroyed the home of the Garcias. Joel Garcia, a 62-year-old gardener, and his wife, Maria, 58, lost the home they had lived in for 24 years. This devastating fire left them and their family—three of their four children and three young grandchildren—without a place to call home.

Joel came to the United States from Mexico 40 years ago and has worked tirelessly as a gardener for over 35 years to provide for his family. The Garcias are kind, hardworking people who have built their lives in Altadena, creating a home filled with love and service. Losing everything to the fire is a heartbreaking setback for this family, as they now are tasked with starting over from scratch.

Joel has served our La Crescenta community with a selfless and dedicated heart. We’re reaching out to our community to ask for support for the Garcia family during this tremendous loss. Joel lost all of his gardening tools as well in the fire, without them it’s difficult to serve his community during this time and support his family.

We ask that you would be praying for this beautiful family, along with the hundreds of others who lost their homes in these devastating Los Angeles fires. Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity during this time.

— Friends of the Garcia Family