Immediate Relief Amid Devastation 

The Palisades and Eaton Fires, fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds, tore through Los Angeles County on January 7, 2025, leaving thousands of families displaced. As survivors faced the sudden loss of their homes and livelihoods, shelters and Disaster Recovery Centers became temporary havens for those with nowhere else to turn. 

Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, Tzu Chi volunteers reached out to those affected, offering emergency aid and support. By January 18, distributions were underway at the West Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley Service Centers, where families received cash cards, blankets, and other necessities. 

James Chen, Director of the San Gabriel Valley Service Center, greets care recipient Christina Frausto, who lost her home. Photo/Shuli Lo

Stories of Loss and Uncertainty 

For Aasha and her 14-year-old son Levi, the wildfire’s destruction was especially painful. Having recently moved to Pacific Palisades, they had barely begun settling into their new life when the fire took everything. "For me, it's a priority to get us set up as fast as I can," she shared, worried about how the sudden upheaval would affect her son. 

Joseph Correia, a retired Los Angeles County firefighter, had spent years protecting others from disasters—never imagining his own home would one day be reduced to ashes. "We lost everything. I never thought this would happen to us," he said, his disbelief evident. 

Retired Los Angeles County firefighter Joseph Correia (back left) waits to pick up supplies, deep in thought. Photo/Jaime Puerta

At the San Gabriel Valley Service Center, survivors of the Eaton Fire, which burned over 14,110 acres, also arrived seeking aid. Christina Frausto and Yolanda de la Torre described the heartbreak of losing their homes and the uncertainty of starting over. Pasadena Fire Engineer Chien Yu, who had spent his career battling flames, now found himself on the other side of the crisis. "I don’t really have any words to express the feelings I had—just devastation," he said. 

Community Support in the Aftermath 

For many, the physical losses were only part of the struggle. Volunteers at the distribution sites took time to listen, offering comfort to those grappling with the emotional toll of the disaster. Among them was Flora Yeh, a fellow wildfire survivor. Despite losing her own home, she remained focused on helping others: "I want to help other people. I’m here to help everybody." 

The faces of care recipients coming to receive aid speak volumes, revealing the burden of stress and uncertainty that they are now enduring. Photo/Jaime Puerta

Local residents, like Cory Grabow and his sons, also stepped in to assist with the relief efforts. "I try to teach the boys and my family that we’re fortunate to live this life as we do," he said, emphasizing the importance of giving back. 

As families left the distribution sites with cash cards and supplies, they carried more than just material aid—they left with the reassurance that they were not alone. Aasha reflected on the experience: "They’re so kind. It makes me feel emotional because… just so many beautiful people helping… it’s so beautiful." 

Holding a bag with Tzu Chi blankets she received, Aasha stares absentmindedly at a table filled with food supplies: What to take when everything is gone? Photo/Jaime Puerta

Looking Ahead 

The road to recovery will be long, and for many, rebuilding will take months or even years. While no amount of aid can fully restore what was lost, the kindness and support shown by the community provide a foundation for hope. 

For more stories, visit Tzu Chi USA's website.