Rebuild My Best Friend’s Life After the Fire

Help My Best Friend’s Family Rebuild After the Palisades Fire

So many heartbreaking stories are coming out of the Palisades right now. Unfortunately, this one hits especially close to home—it’s about my best friend of 35 years, Alessandra, who still lives in the Palisades.

I grew up in the Palisades, a tight-knit community, beautiful surroundings, and countless cherished memories. It’s a place that has shaped who I am today, a place where nature and city coexist and seeing the devastation this fire has caused is truly unimaginable.

My dear friend Alessandra and her family have been evacuated for over a week now, as their home is in the Palisades Highlands. The entire community has been devastated—homes, schools, businesses, and parks have been destroyed.

As of now, we believe Alessandra’s house is still standing, but the extent of the damage remains unknown. There’s no clear timeline for when residents will be allowed back, and even in the best-case scenario, it could take months before their home and the area are livable and safe again. In the meantime, Alessandra is searching for month-to-month housing for her family.

It’s hard to ask for help, but this family truly needs it. Dustin, Alessandra’s husband, has been a real estate agent in the Palisades for 20 years. With the community in ruins, his livelihood is now uncertain. On top of that, the ongoing insurance crisis in the area means they have limited support to rely on for repairs and recovery.

Your Help Will Make a Difference

This family has lost so much. Please give whatever you can to help them on this journey. Any amount, big or small, will go a long way toward helping them rebuild their lives.

With love and gratitude,

Kija Brown

(Life-long friend of Alessandra)