On January 7, 2025, devastating wildfires swept through Southern California, driven by intense Santa Ana winds. The destruction displaced families and communities, prompting immediate action to address the crisis. In response, Tzu Chi USA’s San Gabriel Valley Service Center became a hub for relief efforts, providing shelter, meals, and essential supplies to those displaced by the fires. 

Interfaith Collaboration and Broader Community Support  

To ease the tense atmosphere brought on by the fires, an interfaith prayer service brought together leaders from various organizations, including the Los Angeles Buddhist Union and Unity Church Pomona, alongside local government representatives. The gathering fostered hope and unity, emphasizing the importance of collective compassion in times of crisis. “Post-fire rebuilding will take years, not months,” noted Venerable Bhante Chao Chu, president of the Los Angeles Buddhist Union. “Everyone can support organizations like Tzu Chi in providing supplies, financial assistance, emotional support, and spiritual care.” 

Support extended beyond Tzu Chi’s efforts, with the Taiwanese community, TECO-LA, and China Airlines contributing 10,000 N95 masks and protective goggles. These donations supported first responders and residents, mitigating the health risks posed by wildfire smoke. 

Stories of Resilience 

For residents like Argentina Macias of Altadena, the wildfires have been life-altering. After a hurried evacuation, she found solace and support at the San Gabriel Valley Service Center, where volunteers offered meals and care packages. “The volunteers’ care warmed us from the bottom of our hearts,” she expressed. 

Macias recounted the efforts her family took to protect their home amid the fires. "We return every morning to spray water around the house, hoping it stays safe." 

Coordination with Local Authorities and Organizations 

Tzu Chi volunteers worked closely with the Los Angeles County government and the American Red Cross to provide immediate relief. Supplies such as eco-blankets, meals, and Jing Si multipurpose furniture were delivered to shelters. Additionally, care packages containing easy-to-prepare food items and snacks were distributed to families facing power outages. 

“Starting January 8, volunteers visited shelters to assess evacuees’ needs and provide spiritual comfort,” shared James Chen, head of the San Gabriel Valley Service Center. “We remain committed to accompanying residents until they can safely return home.” 

Looking Ahead 

Recognizing the long journey to recovery, Tzu Chi USA established the "Los Angeles Wildfire Disaster Relief Coordination Center" at its San Dimas headquarters. Volunteers from chapters across the United States joined efforts to raise awareness and funds for sustained support. 

With unwavering dedication, the volunteers also delivered care packages to homes near the disaster zone, offering spiritual comfort and practical assistance. At shelters, they provided emotional support to evacuees, ensuring that no one faced their struggles alone. 

"As wildfires remain a recurring threat, the resilience of affected communities depends on sustained support. Tzu Chi USA is committed to ongoing relief and recovery efforts, working hand-in-hand with local partners to help rebuild lives and restore hope," noted Debra Boudreaux, CEO of Tzu Chi USA. 

For more information about Tzu Chi USA's wildfire relief efforts and to contribute to their ongoing work, please visit their Help Los Angeles Heal mission webpage. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by this disaster.