Help Terri recover from losing her home in the LA Fires

Thank you all for the love and kindness you’ve shown us and our mom, Terri Waits-Smith. She and Buddy (her 14yo dog) were safely evacuated as the Eaton Fire swept through Altadena, CA but her house - and the entire neighborhood - has been completely destroyed.

Altadena was more than just where we lived; it’s where we grew up, built lifelong friendships, celebrated holidays, and created so many special memories in this close-knit and diverse little slice of LA. The diversity and character of this area is what drew her to it in 1989 when she first relocated her two girls there, whom she raised as a single mom.

After a long career at Kaiser, a second-act as a teacher, and dedicating herself to endless volunteer work, Terri retired 15 years ago in this house, what was to be her forever home. She loved taking long walks with Buddy through the foothills and caring for her roses, fruit trees, and boysenberries. This wasn’t just her home - it was a home to many, and the place that kept us all connected.

Terri evacuated quickly and in the dark after hours without power and left with only buddy and one pair of pajamas for the night. All furniture, clothing, photos, mementos and belongings have been burned.

Now, with everything gone, she’s facing the overwhelming task of starting over. But if you know Terri, you know she’s as resilient as they come, and remaining optimistic, even in the face of such loss.

Any contribution - big or small - means the world to us, and shows Terri she’s not alone as she’s starting over. Thank you for being part of her support system during this difficult time.

The funds raised from this campaign will be used to secure and set up housing, buy house furnishings, clothing, and other personal and living essentials while she establishes a plan for the long term.

Gratefully,
Her daughters (Loreal and Kalia Waits-Smith)