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| Photo from the Palisades Fire that started in the City of Los Angeles, January 2025, photo taken on Jan. 7, 2025, by CAL FIRE_Official, downloaded from Flickr. Some rights reserved; photo has not been altered - CAL FIRE_Official |
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Southern California Wildfires Update
A series of fires erupted in southern California on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, amid extremely dry and windy weather conditions. As of a January 11 news report, the death toll had risen to at least 13; and more than 12,000 homes and buildings have been destroyed. The largest blaze, the Pacific Palisades Fire, is now considered the most destructive in Los Angeles City history, and there are still fires burning in neighborhoods all across southern California.
Six churches in the Southern California Conference have currently set up shelters for the displaced and those experiencing power interruption; and local Adventist Community Services (ACS) is collecting non-perishable items for those in need.
"We are deeply saddened to hear how the current fires throughout Southern California have affected many of our churches, members, schools, and communities," the Southern California Conference shared in a statement on social media, via email, and on their website on January 8. "We have not been able to assess the needs we will have in our territory, but we know they will be significant throughout the conference." [CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.]
North American Division ACS director W. Derrick Lea shared that the Pacific Union Conference and Southern California Conference ACS representatives are working with the American Red Cross and other agencies on ways to provide assistance. This includes Leon Brown Sr., Pacific Union Conference executive vice president, and Royal Harrison, Southern California Conference ACS director.
"We are incredibly grateful for the work of our ACS leaders in southern California,” said Lea. “It is no small feat to set up shelters and respite centers during such an overwhelming disaster. Let's continue to pray for everyone in that region, including those who are trying to alleviate the suffering that the communities are experiencing through this tragedy."
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) will also partner with ACS.
Helping in a Time of Need
In addition to praying for those affected by these wildfires, members across the division can give directly to conference relief efforts by donating to the “California Fires” fund (click here, or use QR code below). Those who are contributing online can select "California Fires," enter amount, click "Continue to Donate," and either log in or continue as guest. This opportunity is available through AdventistGiving. |
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| For general disaster response donations, members may use Adventist Community Services Disaster Response NAD through AdventistGiving (under "World Offerings" category options). |
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| Photo from the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County, January 2025, photo taken on Jan.10, 2025, by CAL FIRE_Official, downloaded from Flickr. Some rights reserved; photo has not been altered - CAL FIRE_Official |
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