Enrico & Hiroko's Recovery Journey from the Palisades Fire

Dear Friends, Family, and Community,

My name is Joe Tarantini, and I am reaching out with a heavy heart to ask for your support for my parents Enrico & Hiroko, who have been deeply severely impacted by the recent devastating fire in the Palisades area. This wildfire tore through their community, destroying everything they’ve worked so hard to build since making the Palisades their home in 2001. It has left them, along with my two senior uncles who also lived in the house, with nothing but the clothes on their backs and the memories they cherish.

A Little About My Family:

My parents are in their mid-70s and are retired, as are both my uncles, except for one who still works in a warehouse. My dad retired back in October 2021 after working for the Los Angeles Unified School District in their Internet Technology department, assigned to various schools, for over 25 years. In late 2019, he underwent triple bypass surgery, just months before the pandemic began, and he has been recovering ever since. My mom worked tirelessly throughout my childhood, holding two full-time jobs—day and night—to provide the best she could for our family. They also have two beloved pugs who have been a source of comfort and joy for them over the years.

At a time in their lives when things should be getting easier—filled with a little travel, enjoying matinee movies, and taking peaceful afternoon naps—they now face the unimaginable challenge of starting over from nothing. The Palisades, once a vibrant and lively community, now looks like a shadow of its former self, scarred by the devastation of the wildfire. Rebuilding the neighborhood will take years, and it’s hard to imagine if it will ever feel the same again.

They’ve spent decades creating a warm and loving home, and seeing it reduced to ashes is heartbreaking. This page is my way of trying to ease their burden and help them start the long road to recovery.

The Situation:

The fire swept through their neighborhood with incredible speed, leaving little time to save belongings or prepare for evacuation. This is a hardship no one should have to face, especially not anyone in their 70s. In an instant, everything they had worked for their entire lives was gone. Thankfully, everyone is safe, but they are now facing the overwhelming task of replacing what was lost and navigating the very complex recovery process.

How You Can Help:

Your support will directly help my family get back on their feet as they start over from nothing. These funds will go toward providing the basic essentials they need to begin rebuilding their lives.

Any contribution, big or small, would mean the world to us. If you’re unable to contribute financially, sharing this campaign with your network would be immensely appreciated.

Transparency and Updates:

We are committed to being fully transparent about how these funds are used and will provide updates on my parents’ recovery process. These donations will address gaps left by insurance or FEMA assistance and provide immediate relief for needs that exceed or fall outside the scope of these and other support programs. If you have any concerns or questions or any additional avenues of support you may be aware of, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and compassion during this challenging time. Your support means everything to us as we work to help my family get back on their feet.

With gratitude,

The Tarantini family