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Updated Jan. 14
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As communities across Southern California are devastated by fast-moving wildfires, The Salvation Army is caring for survivors displaced from their homes, temporary evacuees and emergency responders with meals and emotional and spiritual care.
“The Salvation Army is out here serving our actual neighbors,” said Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army in Southern California. “Many of our officer families, staff, as well as several of our shelters have been evacuated, but I’m humbled to say that those same people have remained on duty, doing what The Salvation Army is known for—providing food, shelter, the basic needs and hope, all in the name of Jesus.”
As of Jan. 13, historic wildfires driven by high winds have burned some 63 square miles across the Los Angeles region, according to The New York Times. For comparison, the entire city of San Francisco is 49 square miles.
The fires have claimed the lives of at least 24 people, and L.A. County has declared a public health emergency, citing risks from smoke and particulate matter.
The Salvation Army is present at multiple area evacuation shelters, meeting physical needs and providing a “ministry of presence.” With Red Flag Warnings in effect through 6 p.m. Jan. 15, teams continue to serve with the knowledge that this is far from over.
As of Jan. 13, The Salvation Army has provided more than 3,200 meals and emotional and spiritual care services to nearly 500 individuals at emergency shelters, including at the Family Assistance Center in Pasadena.
In addition to the officers and employees serving evacuees and first responders, 174 Salvation Army volunteers have served 567 hours over the last five days.
For the next phase of response, teams are preparing to be a resource to survivors at Disaster Recovery Centers.
At the largest evacuation shelter, the Westwood Recreation Center in LA’s Westwood neighborhood, Santa Monica Corps soldier and volunteer Destiny Elias was a part of a group that prepared some 240 sandwiches served alongside salad, snacks and beverages Jan. 9.
“I just felt really bad for the people,” she said. “I know they’re going through it emotionally and physically, so the least I could do is just be there for them, and try to help them.”
In response to any disaster, The Salvation Army works in conjunction with government and nonprofit agencies. In Southern California, the organization has 13 emergency vehicles ready for deployment upon government partner request, including six mobile kitchens, five transit vans and two shower trailers.
Southern California General Secretary Major Anthony Barnes told CNN Jan. 9 many people are trying to figure out next steps.
“That’s where we get to come alongside them, point them to directions… that they can get those needs met so we can sit with them and find out one: How are you doing right now? And we want to remind people that we are with them no matter what; they are not walking alone through these disasters,” he said. “That’s the first thing that is most important to us; The Salvation Army likes to let our neighbors in need know that we are with them because we are their neighbors as well.”
At least four Salvation Army corps officers (pastors) were currently under mandatory evacuation order, including Pasadena Tabernacle Corps Officers Captains Becky and Nick Helms.
“The destruction has been widespread, and we are grieving alongside those who have suffered great loss,” the Helmses wrote in a note to their congregation, indicating several families from the Pasadena Tabernacle Corps have lost their homes to the fires. “This is a moment for us to truly embody what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ.”
They pointed to Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
The best way to help right now is financial support, which offers flexibility to address the evolving needs of those impacted by the fires promptly and effectively. For more information and to give, visit salarmy.us/socalfire.
“These are traumatic and unsettling times for our families and first responders,” said Colonel Eddie Vincent, Chief Secretary for The Salvation Army Western Territory. “Please be in prayer for those impacted by these devastating fires.”
See how The Salvation Army is spreading hope to survivors of Southern California wildfires.
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