Episcopal priest Liz Piraino, chaplain at Altadena’s MonteCedro retirement community, reassures a resident taking emergency shelter at Pasadena Convention Center Jan. 8, 2025. Diocese of Los Angeles photo by Bishop John Harvey Taylor
Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles to provide cash assistance to people who have been impacted during the Palisades, Woodley, Eaton and Hurst wildfires.
The fires ignited in early January and have killed at least 25 people and displaced tens of thousands. Fueled by high winds, they have followed an unpredictable path, causing widespread destruction to homes, schools, businesses and places of worship in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
Among those impacted are service industry workers. Many people’s workplaces have been destroyed, and others have had difficulty commuting in Southern California because of dangerous conditions, resulting in lost wages.
In partnership with Episcopal Relief & Development, the Diocese of Los Angeles is providing gift cards and cash deposits through electronic apps to people in need. The financial assistance will be disbursed through churches throughout the Diocese that are serving as emergency shelters, charging stations and respite centers.
“The effects of this disaster are heartbreaking, overwhelming and deeply personal for our church partners,” said Lura Steele, Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development. “Many have lost so much, and they are still working hard to quickly mobilize resources to people even more affected by the fires such as people who have limited social and financial resources.”
Episcopal Relief & Development is equipping local leaders to implement asset-based disaster responses through regional support calls where staff share expertise and resources. Staff also individually guide leaders through federal and state aid processes. Episcopal Relief & Development will support leaders throughout the impact phase of this disaster and into long-term recovery. We will walk alongside survivors as they choose the next steps that make the most sense for their lives.
Please pray for the people affected by the wildfires. Supporting the Wildfire Response Fund will help communities around the world respond to the impact of fires, including people affected by the wildfires in Southern California.
Contact engagement@episcopalrelief.org with any questions. We are here to help
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