LA Dream Center Hosts Wildfire Relief Event
Corporate and faith-based partners provided resources and mobilized volunteers to bring essential relief, hope and encouragement for California families affected by wildfires at a recent Hope for LA event. This timely outreach event for wildfire victims was held at the Los Angeles Dream Center and cohosted by CityServe, PMI Foods and WorldVision, among several other partners.
“Everyone here is in this for the long haul,” said Todd Lamphere, senior vice president of CityServe. “The reality is that it will take a long, long time to rebuild these communities. But we also need to rebuild the lives of those who live here by helping them recover and heal, both emotionally and spiritually. That’s where the church has a vital role to play.”
Among the highlights:
• 2,000 people received a free taco lunch.
• Water, canned goods and other food items were distributed.
• Volunteers handed out several clothing items, including Jockey brand apparel.
• Many hygiene items were distributed.
• Several children received toys as well.
Hundreds of affected families visited the LA Dream Center, which is known in the community for its residential and outreach programs that address homelessness, hunger and education needs.
CityServe is a collaborative network of churches and community leaders who help those in need live better lives. It empowers the local church to fulfill its purpose to overcome despair and transform lives by resourcing them with tangible goods and capacity building. CityServe brings the church to the table to address community challenges by offering long-lasting relationships that lead to transformation and has been designated a “Community of Faith and Opportunity” by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected,” Lamphere said. “We’re determined that as they walk through this adversity, they’ll know they’re not alone.”
Learn more about ongoing wildfire relief efforts and how you can help affected communities recover.
–Alan Goforth
