Relief Efforts for Wildfires in Southern California
Location:
Southern California Divisional Headquarters
16941 Keegan Avenue, Carson, CA 90746 – socal.salvationarmy.org
Situation:
Wind-Controlled Fires Destroying Homes in L.A. County: Multiple Wildfires in Southern California
As of Thursday, January 9, wildfires driven by high winds have burned a combined total of nearly 32,000 acres and are not yet contained.
Though devastation continues across Southern California, The Salvation Army is on site at five evacuation shelters to offer a meal, a hot cup of coffee and a listening ear.
In addition to meal service, one of the hallmarks of The Salvation Army’s service during disasters is Emotional & Spiritual Care or as we call it, “ministry of presence.” For those who are evacuated or experiencing property loss, a friendly face and a warm handshake can make a difference.
“The Salvation Army is out here serving our ‘actual’ neighbors,” shared 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.”
Lt. Colonel Dickinson continued, “As the leader of The Salvation Army in Southern California which has been serving this community since 1887, I can assure you that we are committed to aid our neighbors impacted by these fires for the long run. So, I’m asking those with means to support the work of The Salvation Army so that we have the ability to serve the most vulnerable among us.”
Our teams have been deployed to serve at American Red Cross operated evacuation shelters in the following locations:
- El Camino Real Charter High School in Woodland Hills
- Westwood Recreation Center in Los Angeles
- Ritchie Valens Recreation Center in Pacoima
- The Fairplex in Pomona
- Pan Pacific Recreation Center in Los Angeles
How to Help:
The Salvation Army will need the help and support of the community to continue providing emergency response and long-term relief.
To find more information on how to donate and help, please visit: salarmy.us/socalfire
Contact:
For updates on The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services' work or to arrange interviews, please contact us through the link below:
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/media-request-form/
Previous Updates
Response:
As communities across Southern California are devastated by fast-moving wildfires, The Salvation Army is ramping up its efforts to care for survivors displaced from their homes, temporary evacuees, and emergency responders with meals and emotional/spiritual care.
As the number of fires multiply and expand, The Salvation Army is coming alongside their neighbors in need, mobilizing their teams in So Cal to serve those affected in the emergency shelters tonight and for the days and needs to come.
As of January 8th, The Salvation Army has been deployed to serve meals, support the shelters, and offer spiritual and emotional care at American Red Cross operated evacuation shelters in the following three locations:
- El Camino Real Charter High School, 5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
- Westwood Recreation Center, 1350 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (photos above are from this site)
- Ritchie Vales Recreation Center, 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
In addition, The Salvation Army in Southern California has 13 emergency vehicles ready for deployment upon government partner request, including 6 mobile kitchens, 5 Transit vans, and 2 shower trailers.