In response to the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles County, the Palestinian Youth Movement’s LA-OC-IE (Inland Empire) Chapter organized a collection drive for hygiene kits. The event took place on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Islamic Society of Orange County in Garden Grove, where community members came together to support those affected.
“Who else is going to take care of us if not each other?” said Thawra Khalid, an organizer for the event. “These people have lost everything, and we have to give what we can to try to make a difference.”
The event drew over 150 volunteers from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common purpose: to assist victims of one of the worst wildfire disasters in California’s history. Participants donated essential hygiene products and toiletries, which will be distributed by local nonprofits to those in need.
As volunteers collected donations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Islamic Society’s parking lot was a flurry of activity, with a steady stream of individuals dropping off supplies. The center, which houses one of Southern California’s largest mosques, became a focal point for community solidarity in the face of tragedy.
Activist Carolina Mendez, who joined the effort, expressed her urgency to support those impacted by the fires. “I couldn’t just sit and watch the news while people are suffering,” she said, echoing a sentiment shared by many volunteers present.
As of now, officials report that the deadly wildfires have claimed at least 11 lives, a figure that underscores the severity of the situation. The fires have been exacerbated by severe wind storms and a lack of rainfall, making the fight against the blazes particularly challenging for firefighters.
For those looking to contribute to the relief efforts, organizations such as Cafirefoundation.org are coordinating assistance for the affected communities.
As the community comes together in solidarity, the efforts highlight the resilience of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to support their neighbors in this time of crisis.
Here are some organizations you can contact if you want to help our neighbors to the north:
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
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Categories: Community Voices, Health, Local News
Glad to see PYM out there. If anyone wants to keep contributing, come out to UCI in the afternoon this week, there will be groups tabling to collect supplies and donations.