LOS ANGELES, CA – The wildfires that ignited in the Los Angeles area on January 7 were reported by multiple media outlets as the most devastating wildfire disaster in California history. Being exacerbated by extremely dry conditions and up to 100 mph Santa Ana winds, various fires broke out in residential neighborhoods such as the Pacific Palisades, Altadena and Sylmar. As evacuation orders went out, the fires spread rapidly, scorching acres of land and displacing thousands of residents. Though containment of the fires continue to grow, the situation remains critical as firefighters continue to fight active blazes and suppress hot spots amidst challenging conditions.
Given the devastation of the recent fires, our hearts truly go out to all whom have been affected. As those who carry out the mission of sharing Heavenly Mother’s love with the whole world, the Church of God has partnered with the LA Fire Department and other community organizations to help support first responders and members of the community who have been affected by these tragic events.
Serving Sheriffs and National Guard Soldiers
The Church of God in Sunland found a gracious opportunity to provide a much appreciated volunteer service by providing warm meals to 300+ Sheriffs & National Guard soldiers at the local Hansen Dam in Sylmar.
The local law enforcement and service members, who have been on duty around the clock, have relied on only snacks and determination to keep going. Considering how they must have missed going home for dinner and enjoying a home-cooked meal with their families, our goal was to support them with warm meals served with Mother’s love so that they can carry out their duties faithfully.
Volunteering in Agoura Hills & West Hollywood
On Jan 14 2025, the churches from Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, and Orange County came together in order to serve hot breakfast to about 30 firefighters from Agoura Hills, West Hollywood, and other various fire stations throughout the Los Angeles area.
These firefighters have been relentlessly battling the devastating fires and diligently working to contain their spread. The opportunity was given to serve a warm meal to these first responders who risk their lives protecting others. Mario Quintana from Los Angele County Fire Department in Agoura Hills, was really touched by the heartfelt work on the volunteers who woke up early in the morning to prepare hot meals to encourage the firefighters. The Taco truck was brought to serve them with warm meals by members of the Church.
Volunteer Service for Firefighters in Tarzana
On Jan 19, 2025, Fire Station 93 in Tarzana opened its doors to receive warm comfort through the volunteer efforts of the Church members in Los Angeles and Cerritos. This is the worst fire in the history of California, and it has been tedious on firefighters as well. A warm meal to comfort them before they begin the day has been the motto of the Church members during this time. As Heavenly Mother never forgets even one of her children but considers all of them. As most of the weight of containing the fire has been on the firefighters, it has become the custom of the Church members to comfort them in every and all ways possible.
120 Warm Meals Served
Continuing support for first responders, the Church of God volunteers were blessed day-after-day to roll up their sleeves and serve. On another occasion, 120 warm meals were served with Mother’s love to the Sheriff’s Department. They were so moved and appreciated having a warm meal.
Donation Drive-thru
On January 19, a donation drive to support families impacted by the recent LA wildfires was held in Colton. Churches across the Southwest region joined forces to provide essential items for those in need. We give thanks to Elohim God for bringing us together for this meaningful cause.