Please Support the Secada-Borrego Family after the Eaton Fire

I was at work, in Chicago, when I received the text at 10:07 am, "We lost our home. The entire block is gone." My body sank. Relieved the four of them were together and safe but overwhelmed with what comes next.

My sister, Malka, sister-in-law Carola, niece Harper (14) and nephew Jude (7) have suffered an unimaginable loss. Not only have they lost their home and all their belongings, but they now face the challenge of rebuilding from scratch.

They are the family that welcomes you with open arms. Hungry? They'll have a plate of food ready. Need a ride to softball practice? No problem, they’ll drive. Professionally, they’ve spent their lives advocating for individuals and communities, always lifting others up. Now, after this devastating fire, they find themselves in need of support from all of us.

If you're able, I’m asking for your help. This fundraiser is to support the Secada-Borrego Family in getting back on their feet by addressing unmet needs not covered by insurance or FEMA, as they navigate their next steps toward recovery. Any donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign can make a difference.

Malka, Carola, Harper, and Jude are incredibly resilient, and their strength is inspiring. But they can’t do this alone. As Carola said, “We are heartbroken and devastated, but also deeply grateful for the love and kindness that surrounds us.”

From everything in me, thank you for reading this, thank you for your generosity and support.

Sarina Borrego Ortiz

Malka's Little Sister