One Family’s Story: Caroline & James

Caroline & James

High school sweethearts born and raised in LA, Caroline and James spent three years fixing up their dream home in Altadena—just in time to welcome their newborn daughter. 

Then the wildfires hit. 

Their home—and the nursery they’d lovingly prepared—was destroyed. With their daughter only four weeks old, they were forced to evacuate and start over. 

Thanks to our generous partners and supporters, El Nido Family Centers was able to step in with immediate relief. Amid unimaginable loss, Caroline and James found hope—and the strength to take their next steps as a family. 

“We lost everything—but El Nido gave us the breathing room to focus on our daughter and take the first steps toward rebuilding. It meant more than I can say.” 

— Caroline G. 

A Community United 

At El Nido, we believe hope grows even in the hardest seasons. That’s why we’re doubling down on Los Angeles: doing whatever it takes to help families emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready for whatever comes next. 

Since 1925, we’ve stood with Angelenos through moments of crisis: civil unrest, wildfires, economic downturns, a global pandemic, and more. Today is no different. 

As the needs have grown, so has our resolve—we are meeting the moment with urgency and care. 

With the partnership of key funders, over $450,000 in wildfire relief has already reached 106 families across Los Angeles. 

As of June 1, 2025, El Nido Family Centers has distributed 100% of the $100,000 granted to us by the FireAid Benefit Concert, including support for Caroline and James. These funds were entrusted to us specifically to support families with young children—and every cent has gone directly to families to help cover basic needs such as rent, food, bills, baby supplies, and more. 

We’re deeply grateful to the many funders who have made this work possible, including: 

• California Community Foundation 

• Eisner Foundation 

• FireAid Benefit Concert 

• The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation 

• Rhodes Futures Foundation 

• W. M. Keck Foundation 

• And others

Spring 2025 Impact at a Glance 

• $450K+ in wildfire relief raised and already reaching families 

• 200 beds donated by Ashley, the largest furniture store brand in North America, and distributed to families in need 

• 12+ programs providing comprehensive support 

• 6 sites across Los Angeles delivering care every day

From emergency financial aid and trauma-informed counseling to diapers, clothing, food, and housing navigation—we’re doing whatever it takes to support Angelenos in need. To learn more about our wildfire emergency assistance resources, please visit: www.elnidofamilycenters.org/post/la-fires-emergency-assistance-update  

Looking Ahead 

For a century, El Nido has equipped Angelenos with the tools and opportunities to thrive—at every stage of life. Powered by 150+ highly skilled professionals, we’re enhancing services in the most high need communities. 

We remain committed to creating pathways to lasting stability and well-being for individuals and families across Los Angeles. Caroline and James’s story is just one of many. 

Thank you for being a part of it.