A fundraiser, organized by a relative, notes that Jenkins was among the earliest African American property owners in the affluent neighborhood. She spent decades as an educator in Southern California and has mentored generations of family and friends.
Louvenia Jenkins, one of the first Black homeowners in Pacific Palisades and a longtime educator and community mentor, celebrated her 97th birthday this week after losing her home of more than 70 years in the devastating January wildfires.
Jenkins, affectionately known as “Ms. Lou,” is in good spirits despite the loss, according to an update posted Saturday on her GoFundMe page, which has raised nearly $60,000 to support her recovery and caregiving needs.
The fundraiser, organized by a relative, notes that Jenkins was among the earliest African American property owners in the affluent neighborhood. She spent decades as an educator in Southern California and has mentored generations of family and friends. Last year, Santa Monica College students produced a documentary about her life and community impact. She also established the Richard L. Sykes Memorial Scholarship through the United Negro College Fund to support African American students from the Los Angeles area.
Jenkins’ home and all her possessions were destroyed in the Pacific Palisades fire. The fundraiser is being used to provide housing and support for Jenkins and her caregiver, Jose, who rescued her from the burning property.
“Her property is gone, and she has little hope to see it restored within her lifetime, but we can still afford her comfort,” the campaign description states.
The page received a new update Saturday noting that Jenkins will turn 98 on Tuesday. Organizers are asking for continued donations and shares to help her regain stability.
The GoFundMe can be found by searching for “Palisades Fire Relief Fund: Louvenia Jenkins.”
