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Local Non Profits Unite To Assist WildFire Victims

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The Palisades and Eaton fires that broke out on Jan. 7, are likely the second and fourth most destructive in California history. More than 92,000 Los Angeles County residents are under evacuation orders, and approximately 89,000 are under evacuation warnings. The total area burned by the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst Fires is about 60 square miles. At least 24 people have died, and dozens are still missing.

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Dr. Robert Sausedo, President of Community Build, Inc., a community service nonprofit agency, spearheaded an effort to gather local nonprofits providing resources and services to displaced residents. “We need an organized effort, so people know who to call near their community for resources,” Sausedo said.

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On Jan. 13, the leaders of over a dozen nonprofits, faith-based communities, and public safety organizations convened to announce services available for individuals and families affected by wildfires and provide information on accessing those services.

One by one, leaders of nonprofit organizations outlined services and resources available for those affected by the wildfires and how to reach out.

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Victor Dominquez, President and CEO of LA Metropolitan YMCA, encouraged people to connect with their local community-based organizations. The YMCA is offering free childcare for anyone impacted by these fires. Additionally, all YMCA facilities are open with free access for those affected, providing moments of family time and mental health support. The organization has also deployed mental health workers to assist in impacted areas.

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Clergy leaders spoke about the role of faith and perseverance.  Dr. Robert Marshall from the Los Angeles Community Church said the wildfires have shifted those who typically give into the ones who need to receive.   “While people are making things available to them right now, it'll be in the coming days and weeks and months that the impact in the faith based community will be felt.”

 

Superintendent Anthony Williams, Senior pastor of the 88th Street Temple Church of God in Christ and Chair of Pastors and Elders Worldwide said there will be a prayer vigil for the City of Los Angeles at West Angeles Church of God in Christ, Friday evening, Jan. 17, at 7pm lead by Senior Pastor Charles Edward Blake.

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Dr. Lupe Rivera, CEO of Toberman Neighborhood Center, highlighted the nonprofit’s delivery of essential supplies such as food, water, clothing, financial assistance, and hygiene kits to families in need. Dr. Rivera emphasized that the organization is working to mitigate misinformation, particularly for undocumented communities.

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Toberman Neighborhood Center is also seeking volunteers to help distribute donations and is focused on rebuilding efforts by offering financial assistance and housing resources. The organization has partnered with local groups and first responders to make its gym available for temporary housing.

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Urban League President and CEO Cynthia Heard shared that her organization is partnering with New Revelations Church in Elina to provide essential services such as food and hygiene items to families affected by the wildfires. The Los Angeles Urban League is addressing disparities in resource distribution to marginalized communities. Collaborations with corporations like Macy’s and Edison have helped secure gift certificates and monetary support for affected families.

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Developing Options has launched a grief text line to support individuals affected by the wildfires. The text line number, (951) 444-0129, provides a direct resource for emotional support. This initiative addresses the emotional toll of the disaster and offers ongoing assistance to the community.

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Dr. Dionne, representing She Ready Foundation—an organization supporting foster youth founded by actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish—stated that the foundation is providing luggage to displaced individuals to help them carry their belongings. The She Ready Foundation aims to inspire and protect foster youth and those displaced by offering resources and support.

Dr. Belinda Allen of West Angeles CDC detailed her organization’s efforts in providing emotional and spiritual support to families in crisis, helping them rebuild their lives. The organization also offers housing assistance to prevent evictions and homelessness, as well as financial wellness services to educate community members on managing their finances during challenging times.

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The Girls Club of Los Angeles provides free childcare services and addresses food insecurity through weekly food share programs.

The National Association of Minority Contractors of Southern California (NAMCSC) is assisting homeowners seeking to rebuild. NAMCSC President Tracy Watson emphasized the importance of reliable resources. “We provide contractors and subcontractors who can get the job done without exploiting those in desperate need,” Watson said. “NAMC SoCal is here for the community.”

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Other participating nonprofit organizations included 2nd Call, Community Build Inc.’s Health Workers Program, The Plant Chica, Volunteers of America, Community Warriors for Peace, Special Needs Network, Urban Resources Los Angeles, ECWA, Shelter Partnership, Black Business Association and various Gang Reduction Youth Development (GRYD) programs from around the city.

The presentation ended with a call for unity among organizations and a commitment to ongoing assistance.

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Dr. Sausedo reiterated the need for vigilance as firefighters focus on containment efforts. “Right now, the situation is fluid, but when it slows down and we shift to recovery, we will need to rely upon one another,” he said.

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