On the morning of January 6th, everything changed for the Mernilo family. In the quiet neighborhood of Altadena, Pasadena, a devastating wildfire swept through their home, forcing them to flee with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Edwin’s elderly father, Tatay, and stepmother, Nanay, both 81 and 82 years old, along with his sister, Vangie, had no time to gather their belongings or even make sure they had the essentials. Nanay and Vangie fled with only the clothes they were wearing, overwhelmed by the urgency of escaping the spreading flames.

Tatay and Nanay have lived through many challenges, but nothing could prepare them for the heartbreak of losing their home and everything inside it. In the chaos of that moment, Tatay, determined not to lose everything, returned to the house to try and extinguish the flames. Despite his best efforts, the fire had already grown too powerful, and to his dismay, he was unable to stop it. The flames consumed everything.

They fled with no clothes, no medications, no important documents—just the overwhelming reality of starting over at their age. What should have been a safe place, filled with the comfort of family memories, was reduced to ashes in an instant.

Since that fateful day, the Mernilo family has been doing their best to rebuild their lives, but the journey has been incredibly difficult. They are working with insurance to cover some of the losses, but the road to recovery has been long and challenging. They are relying on the kindness of others to replace the things they lost—vital medications, clothing, and household items. Each step forward has been made possible by the generosity of friends, community members, and strangers who have offered their support.

This is where we can help. The Mernilo family is reaching out to friends, community members, and compassionate strangers to support their family during this difficult time. All funds raised will go directly toward helping them rebuild their lives—whether it's replacing clothing, obtaining necessary medications, or purchasing essential household supplies to make their temporary living situation more comfortable.

Tatay and Nanay, who have dedicated their lives to raising their children and giving love and care to others, now need that same support. Your generosity can help restore their sense of security and bring them back the peace they once had in their home.

Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in their journey to rebuild. Please consider contributing to this cause and sharing their story with others who might want to help.

Together, we can help the Mernilo family rise from the ashes of this tragedy and start the process of rebuilding not just their home, but their hope.

Donate today and help rebuild their lives. Thank you for your contribution and God bless you.

Created on behalf of the Mernilo family by friends and coworkers from Pacifica Nursing and Rehab Facility to help rebuild their lives and acquire necessary items lost in the fire. All funds will go to helping pay for medical needs, household items, clothes, groceries and other expenses