I’m reaching out on behalf of my cousin, Khari, who, like so many others during this devastating emergency, has lost everything. Khari’s childhood home in Altadena, a community with a large Black population, was completely consumed by flames. His neighborhood is now reduced to ashes, and sadly, it wasn’t just the fire that left people stranded—it was the lack of aid and support for families like his in Black and Brown communities during emergencies. Despite the tireless efforts of many brave firefighters, Khari’s community was left without the timely evacuation warnings and assistance they desperately needed. Many of his neighbors had no notice, while their homes burned, trapping them in a nightmare.

Khari, a man of incredible positivity, light, and hope, truly believed that his house would make it through. He woke up that morning with faith, thinking he'd return to his home, only to find the remains of what was once a safe place reduced to nothing but the front columns.

Khari , is not alone in this devastation, and his brother, Jahi, and sister, Kayla, are all devastated behind what was once their one place of comfort and security. Khari safely led his sister to shelter during their abrupt evacuation. 

My cousin Kayla has also been deeply affected by these fires. She recently moved in with Khari after losing her job and being forced to leave her apartment. Tragically, she lost everything in the fires as well. This has been an incredibly difficult month for her, especially as her mother was also recently diagnosed with cancer. Kayla is facing unimaginable challenges right now, and any support would mean the world to her during this heartbreaking time.

Please, if you can, consider donating. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps give Khari and his siblings a fighting chance to restore hope.Thank you for your kindness and support during this unimaginable time.