20-05-2025
Video: Dozens of faiths, charities facilitate hope for California wildfire survivors
Approximately 1,200 Latter-day Saints gathered last week with members of other faiths and charitable organizations to provide support and resources for those affected by January's wildfires in California.
Products and services provided at the six-day event included:
Bulk item distribution (air purifiers, PPE, hygiene kits, cleanup kits, meal kits, water and items for children)
Case management
Debris removal and cleanup services
Emotional and spiritual care
Financial assistance (gift cards, vouchers)
Housing and employment guidance
Legal and insurance guidance
Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration guidance
'We were worried in the beginning that all the help would kind of dwindle and not go on, but today there's still a lot of people, a lot helping, and it's very nice,' said Zara Ciccotelli, a survivor of the Eaton wildfire. 'I think there is hope, and it helps to see that there are people willing to help us constantly.'
The goal was to assist 2,500 households.
The event included volunteers from dozens of organizations, who gathered at a local Latter-day Saint stake center to offer support.
'One nonprofit, one church, one faith-based organization can do something, and everyone does respond. But really, the response is so much more effective when everyone comes together,' said Michael Flood, the board chair for the Emergency Network of Los Angeles.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been involved in relief efforts since the fires started. Members of the church have contributed some 7,000 man hours, according to a news release.
'This event has been our opportunity as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to stand in the Savior's stead and reach our hands out to lift others up in this community around us,' said Pasadena California stake president Shaun Jorgensen.
