Local organizations lend a hand to recovery in the fires
Introduction
On Jan. 7, 2025, a series of destructive wildfires emerged, destroying and damaging many homes and community buildings in the Los Angeles Metropolitan area. The Palisades and Eaton fires, two of the deadliest fires in California history, have been contained three weeks later, and help for those affected is coming from around the world. At least 180,000 people have been displaced and over 16,000 homes have been demolished by the fires. While the threat of the fires has passed, the impact will be long-lasting and the recovery process is just beginning.
Many humanitarian groups and nonprofit organizations are working to provide support for the victims of the fire. Resources such as shelter, food, water, health services and emergency supplies are being donated to the people affected.
Concert
On Jan. 30, 2025, L.A. hosted a Fire Aid concert at the Kia Forum to help support people affected by the fires. Ashley Neier, a former NPHS student, attended the concert with her sister in order to aid the cause. “My sister and I decided to attend the event because we love live music. My dad and his student as well as a lot of our family friends have been affected by the fires. This was our way of having fun and supporting,” Neier said. Many artists from all different genres performed live in order to show their support. It was a new experience for Neier as it was unlike anything she had ever done. “It felt like L.A.. We are a close community and love an excuse to put sorrow behind us and just have fun. I feel like it defines us,” Neier said. She had a great time with her sister and paid 350 dollars per ticket all of which was donated to fire victims.
People displaced by fire
As many people were displaced or affected by the fires, they continue to keep their heads up through these difficult times. Coco Mori, 17-years-old, was personally affected by the Palisades fire as she had to evacuate her home. Although her own house was not burned down by the fires, packing up her room and belongings made her realize the true severity of the fires. “All these beautiful memories I have of the Palisades will be with me forever, but I still can’t believe that my school, my best friend’s house, my boyfriend’s house, the local cafes, grocery shops, everything just disappeared in less than a week,” Mori said. Mori was able to stay with a close friend of hers in Newbury Park as the fires took their course. She explains how she was surrounded by love and support throughout the entire situation. Seeing how the community came together afterward was very inspiring to Mori. “This fire destroyed memories, lives, and homes. But what it didn’t do is break the bond our community has and instead made us close by giving each other shoulders to lean on. I think it’s kind of amazing,” Mori said.
Surf Trip and Calvary
Several organizations including local companies and churches have stepped in to aid in the recovery by providing financial assistance and supplies. One such organization is Calvary Community Church, which has provided space for the Red Cross to store supplies. In addition, classrooms with cots were provided for firefighters so they could sleep between calls. Abi Hume, Elementary Associate Director, assisted in Calvary’s efforts to support first responders. “In the midst of tragedy, it was a beautiful picture of people coming together to help the community in tangible ways,” Hume said.
In addition to Calvary Community Church, Surf Trip Supply, a local surf-based shop, assisted financially in the recovery of the fires by donating 100 percent of their sales for 48 hours to various local fire recovery organizations. Surf Trip Supply owner, Larry Flores, noticed a jump in sales and interaction in those 48 hours. “The most rewarding part was when I hand-delivered a bunch of products to customers’ apartments,” Flores said. “I’ve seen so many of my classmates and customer’s homes get destroyed so I knew I needed to use my platform to help out in any way.”
Conclusion
While this year’s fire season may have come to a close, the road to recovery and rebuilding lives remains. Victims of the fires continue to rely on donations and the support of local organizations to rebuild. While nonprofits and charities, both local and national, are contributing to the fires, the support from communities is essential in continuing to restore normalcy in the lives of the people affected. Local businesses were open and offering services to victims and fostering recovery. Large organizations also played a vital role in providing financial assistance, temporary housing, and essential supplies. Through all these combined efforts, the community is steadily rebuilding.
