Community Corner

Marin Rallies Behind Owners Of Local Business Gutted By Blaze

A GoFundMe drive in support of the owners of Fairfax French Laundry has raised over $16,000 towards its $75,000 goal.

Emergency funds for Fairfax French Laundry aims to raise $75,000 that’s needed to rebuild the business Ki Oh and Jai Hee have lovingly nurtured since arriving in the United States 20 years ago in pursuit of the American Dream.
Emergency funds for Fairfax French Laundry aims to raise $75,000 that’s needed to rebuild the business Ki Oh and Jai Hee have lovingly nurtured since arriving in the United States 20 years ago in pursuit of the American Dream. (Google Maps)

FAIRFAX, CA — The Oh family spent 20 years cultivating a business that’s become an integral part of this tiny Marin community.

So when in an instant Fairfax French Laundry at 101 Bolinas Road burned to the ground earlier this week, this town of 7,441 has rallied to their support.

A GoFundMe drive that launched Thursday has already raised over $16,000 as of late Friday afternoon.

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Emergency funds for Fairfax French Laundry aims to raise $75,000, which is needed to rebuild the business Ki Oh and Jai Hee have lovingly nurtured since arriving in the United States 20 years ago in pursuit of the American dream, GoFundMe organizer Sonia Kang wrote on the crowdsourcing website’s page.

The funds are needed because insurance won’t cover the cost of rebuilding the business located in the iconic downtown building, Kang said.

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“They have served our community and made their lives here,” Kang said.

“They wanted to raise their children here and live the American dream. As always, in our generous caring small town way, please show your community support and help the Oh family get back on their feet.”

If the comments section on the GoFundMe page is any indication, in addition to delivering much-needed funds, the crowdsourcing drive has brought the Oh family a lot of love.

“We are so sorry you are faced with such a tragic event,” GoFundMe contributor Lynn E Yetter wrote.

“Both of you have been incredibility kind and helpful for 20 years to our family. Tailoring prom and party dresses, replacing zippers and successfully treating the most stubborn of stains. All with a kind smile. We wish that all your visions for the future come to fruition and that a recovery of your business will happen with zero road blocks . You are in our hearts and if you need anything we are here to help.

“May you find comfort knowing that your community cares for you. Thank you for everything both of you have done for us. Fairfax French Laundry has the best customer service in Fairfax hands down. We look forward to your return.”

Said contributor Elsa Cameron: “Alan and Jackie we are so sad by the fire and your loss. You have always been so helpful and kind to us ... we so hope you will recover and that we meet again.”

To contribute to Emergency funds for Fairfax French Laundry visit here.

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