Hi, my name is Rani, and I’m starting this fundraiser for my dear neighbor and close friend, Irene Shulgin. Irene and I moved into the same apartment building in Pacific Palisades in the spring of 2024, and she quickly became a part of my family’s life. I first met her when I needed a screwdriver to assemble some furniture after my move. Without hesitation, she handed me hers “Just take mine!” That gesture was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Over the months, Irene became my neighbor, confidante, and even my daughter’s puzzle partner. She saved my packages from porch pirates, shared pizza with us after long days, and watched my daughter so I, as a single mom, could have rare nights out. Irene is one of those people who makes life easier and brighter just by being in it.

Beyond her kindness to us, Irene has spent her entire life helping others. As part of the LGBTQ+ community, she worked as the Coordinator for Financial Advocacy at the Gay Men’s Health Crisis in New York City during the late ’80s and early ’90s. She fought tirelessly to get sick men the financial support they needed for medical bills and basic necessities, often helping them stay connected to loved ones in their final days.

She’s also a lifelong animal rescue advocate. From turtles to horses, Irene has never turned away from an animal in need.

But now Irene needs our help.

On January 7th, 2025, the Pacific Palisades wildfires destroyed our apartment building. When the fire broke out, Irene grabbed only the essentials—pet supplies and medicine for her senior rescues—and fled in her trusty older Toyota. She left behind everything else: her clothes, personal belongings, and countless treasures from a life well-lived.

Now, she’s starting over. Irene has relocated to a small house in Augusta, Georgia, to be near family, but she’s facing overwhelming expenses on a single income. Her renter’s insurance informed her 1/14/2025 when speaking with adjuster that her fire insurance was cancelled last year. She had no idea.

How Your Donations Will Help:

Your contributions will go directly toward:

• Clothing and personal essentials: Irene only has a couple of changes of clothes.

• Health and wellness items.

• Pet supplies: Irene’s two senior dogs and sweet kitty are safe, but the cross-country move has been stressful for them.

• Household basics: She needs kitchen items and furniture to make her new house feel like home.

• Replacement of sentimental belongings: Irene’s apartment was filled with meaningful items collected during her travels and adventures.

• Car maintenance: Her Toyota got her to Georgia, but it’s in need of repairs to ensure it stays reliable.

Every dollar will help my friend rebuild her life with the comfort, security, and dignity she deserves.

Why she Deserves Your Support:

Irene has always given selflessly to others, her empathy and caring is inspirational. Now it’s our turn to give back to someone who has given so much.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading Irene’s story and for considering a donation or a repost to your online community. Even a small contribution can make a huge difference. Together, we can help Irene rebuild and show her that her kindness and generosity have not gone unnoticed.

— Rani Sanderson