Resources to Support Los Angeles Communities Affected by the Fires

The devastation raging through Los Angeles and surrounding counties has caused tremendous loss. Loss of life, environment, security, and more, this is turning out to be one of the most dangerous fire seasons we have ever encountered.

The incredibly dry and windy season has created the perfect conditions for these massive fires. The acceleration of climate change in the last few years has predicted stronger and more aggressive climate disasters. This is more such disaster.

As a fellow Angeleno, the outpouring of love and support is immeasurable. How we care for each other in these most challenging times will make all the difference. Many places have been filled to the brim with donations, and some areas have more volunteers than they know what to do with. But many others still need your support.

Below, I have included resources to help people in Los Angeles with their needs. If you live in another part of California, consider donating to a local organization or providing home hospitality for those evacuating.

-Antoinette Scully, Managing Director, UUJMCA Board of Directors

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General Resources

Mutual Aid Los Angeles Network Fire and Wind Storm Resources: Broken up by city and organization name, this resource is compiled by local activists and organizers. You can also view this in map form for each area. This is one of the most comprehensive networks working on the ground.

Fire-Related Mutual Aid Efforts to Support and Some Must-Reads by Kelly Hayes: Note that her first suggestion is our first suggestion. She also includes links to getting/staying prepared for a natural disaster, as well as books on building better community support. Her work is excellent overall and I would recommend her blog.

FEMA Assistance: Impacted Californians are encouraged to apply for immediate and long-term relief through FEMA. They can provide displacement assistance folks have until March to complete an application.

Watch Duty: This app has been immensely helpful with real-time updates and county alerts.

UU Specific Resources

BLUU Pastoral and Spiritual Care for Black UUs: Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism is a community resource for Black UUs. They offer pastoral and spiritual care, especially in tough times. Reach out to speak to a chaplain.

Diverse Revolutionary UU Multicultural Ministry Chaplins: DRUUMM provides support for Black, Indigenous, and Other People of Color (BIPOC) UUs. Their chaplains are available.

UU Trauma Network: Chaplains are on call to provide support to all UUs who are experiencing grief during this tough time. You can call their 24/7 hotline (888-760-3332) or visit their website.

UUA Disaster Relief Fund: The UUA will be mobilizing grant funding for impacted congregations and communities. This fund may be able to help if your church or congregants’ properties are damaged. For those outside of Los Angeles, your donations make a difference. Resources for congregational special collections may be found here.

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This list is being updated in real-time, so please feel free to reach out with any other resources through admin@uujmca.org.