To our beloved family in Los Angeles, Sawabona – We see you. We honor your strength.
Zola Up On We (an energy/power that can and does “activate” our self-healing power)
News & Reports– Black Community
Los Angeles Sentinel – Los Angeles Sentinel – Black News
In response to one of the most devastating natural disasters in California history, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the launch of LA Rises, a private-sector initiative designed to accelerate the rebuilding of Los Angeles communities impacted by the recent catastrophic fires.
Word in Black – Word in Black
L.A. Firestorms Destroy a Historic Black Community
A haven for Black professionals in the 1960s, the loss of the Altadena neighborhood has been overlooked in fire coverage
Capital B News – Capital B News
Generational Black Homes in LA Reduced to Ash Amid Growing Wildfires
As multimillion-dollar mansions in celebrity enclaves dominate headlines, Black communities in Altadena face an uphill battle to rebuild their lives.
Axios – Axios
L.A. wildfires destroy Black community birthed from Civil Rights era. A historic Black community that grew out of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s is among the communities wiped away by devastating wildfires charring through Los Angeles County.
UCLA Newsroom – Altadena’s Black community disproportionately affected by Eaton Fire, report shows.
The Eaton Fire has had devastating and disproportionate impacts on Altadena’s Black community, according to a new data brief from the UCLA Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies, the UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge, and the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute.
Los Angeles Times – Altadena’s Black residents disproportionally hit by Eaton fire
The fire burned more than 9,000 structures in the heart of Altadena, ravaging historically Black neighborhoods that for decades had thrived despite racial discrimination and, more recently, gentrification.
Community-Led Relief Efforts
1. Addressing Social Inequities in Disaster Response
The recent wildfires have underscored existing social inequalities in Los Angeles, particularly affecting marginalized communities. Discussions emphasize the need for equitable disaster preparedness and response strategies to ensure that vulnerable populations receive adequate support during recovery efforts. theatlantic.com
2. Fundraising Initiatives for Displaced Black Families
Public figures and organizations have launched fundraising campaigns to support Black families displaced by the fires. For instance, rapper Flavor Flav partnered with the Black Music Action Coalition to raise funds for affected families in the Altadena and Pasadena areas, aiming to provide immediate assistance for essential needs and rebuilding efforts. people.com
3. Challenges in Rebuilding Historically Black Communities
Residents of Altadena express concerns about potential displacement and the loss of cultural heritage following the destruction caused by the fires. There is a concerted effort within the community to preserve their legacy and ensure that rebuilding processes are inclusive and respectful of the area’s historical significance. theguardian.com
Resources
In the spirit of Ujima- Collective Work and Responsibility
Black Community Support
Black People Know How To Rise From The Ashes
Blacklove.com – Resources for Black Families Affected by Wildfires in Los Angeles
Ebony – Black Organizations Stepping Up For Los Angeles Fire Relief
Equal Justice Societies – LA Fires – Resources and News: Pro bono therapy avail + Black and Latino communities devastated
Association of Black Psychologists, Inc. (ABPsi). – Sawabona Healing Circles
Mindfulness for Racial-Cultural Stress and Trauma
Dr. Shelly P. Harrell – ABPsi’s 2024 Distinguished Psychologists
The course continues to be FREE for those directly impacted by the LA Wildfires.
Here’s the direct link for further details and course enrollment:https://thesoulfulnesscenter.thinkific.com/courses/soulfulmindfulness2025
California Black Freedom Fund: Black LA Relief & Recovery Fund
Instagram video – A historic community that grew out of the Civil Rights Movement
Instagram video – The Eaton Fire devastated Altadena’s historic Black …
Instagram video – How to help Black folk who have been affected by the fire
L.A.-specific resources you can forward to loved ones in the area.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance for Southern California residents
- L.A. County’s list of evacuation shelters.
- Airbnb is providing temporary shelter for those impacted by the fires.
- A crowdsourced list by L.A. resident and journalist Nicholas Slayton.
- A crowdsourced list by a local climbing club to connect people to fire victims who need supplies like sleeping bags.
- California Environmental Voters has a list of evacuation centers.
- Rep. Judy Chu’s resource list for those impacted by the Eaton Fire.
- The Disability and Disaster Hotline: 800-626-4959.
- Los Angeles Unified Schools is providing mental health support for students and their families at 213-241-3840. Employees can access support at 800-882-1341.
General response organizations
- 211 LA County: A central source for information and referrals for emergencies, health and human services, and shelter in LA County. Dial 211 for assistance.
General support for wildfire assistance and firefighters
- Disaster Distress Helpline - Call or text 1-800-985-5990
National hotline providing disaster crisis counseling.
- SAMHSA: Warning Signs and Risk Factors for Emotional Distressfrom wildfires and other disasters
- The Los Angeles Fire Department, which has a wildfire emergency fund.
- California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund.
- Anti-Recidivism Coalition, to support incarcerated firefighters. (Be sure to write “firefighter fund” in your donation.)
Supporting children and schools
- The California Department of Education, which is asking for donations through SupplyBank.
- Baby2Baby, which is providing assistance to help with diapers and formulas for young children and families.
- Project Camp, which provides “trauma-informed childcare for displaced families in the aftermath of disasters.”
Food banks and meals
Community organizing
- Mask Bloc LA, which provides respirators and masks.
- National Day Laborer Organizing Network, which is specifically fundraising for immigrant workers impacted by the fires.
- Mutual Aid LA has a list of mutual aid organizations in the region.
Should the worst happen, the L.A. Times also has a step-by-step guide on what to do after losing your home or business in a fire. KQED also a guide to coping in the aftermath of a wildfire from a survivor of the 2017 Tubbs Fire.
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA): Provides help with FEMA disaster assistance, tenant rights issues, emergency public benefits, and unemployment insurance. Visit their table at Disaster Recovery Centers for support. lafla.org
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES): Collaborates with local, state, tribal, and federal partners to assist Californians in recovery after an emergency. Visit Cal OES Wildfire Recovery for more information.
Los Angeles County Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: For information on debris removal and Right of Entry forms, call (844) 347-3332.
Support for animals
GoFundMe pages and other individual fundraisers
GoFundMe has a list of verified fundraisers for those impacted by the fires, including one that the website is running itself.
Residents and communities are also updating spreadsheets with links to fundraisers and Venmo accounts, including:
- GoodRx is offering free online healthcare provider visits through GoodRx Care to Los Angeles-area residents affected by the wildfires.
- The Hotel Assn. of Los Angeles has compiled a list of hotels in the L.A. area
- Trinka and Sam: The Big Fire - e-book for young children
How to Help People Affected by the LA Fires – Many Bay Area residents have strong connections to the L.A. area and may be concerned for the safety of their loved ones during this challenging time. If you’re looking for ways to support those affected by the wildfires, local organizations, activists, and community members in L.A. are actively organizing fundraising efforts and mutual aid initiatives where you can donate or offer assistance.Read the full article to explore resources for those seeking help, as well as ways you can contribute to relief efforts. Please note that the situation in Southern California continues to evolve, and while this list is not exhaustive.
On behalf of the Association of Black Psychologists, Inc. (ABPsi), we extend our love and support during this time of disruption and loss. We acknowledge the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll that such disasters bring. In moments of great trial, you remind us that the village comes together. As part of that village, we stand with you. For those who have lost homes, belongings, and a sense of stability, in many African traditions, healing is understood as a communal process. The concept of Ubuntu, which teaches that “I am because we are,” emphasizes the importance of collective care and support in times of crisis. As you are demonstrating to the world, communities endure and rebuild through shared effort, intentional action, and a commitment to well-being. As you navigate this period, may you continue to find comfort in the love and support of your family, friends, and those around you. Here at ABPsi, we see you and recognize your resistance, power and strength. The Association of Black Psychologists stands ready to assist in any way we can, offering our knowledge, resources, and advocacy.
Sharon L. Bethea, Ph.D.
President, The Association of Black Psychologists, Inc. (ABPsi)
Odo Nnyew Fie Kwan iconOdo Nnyew Fie Kwan means “Love does not lose its way home.”
Pathways to Recovery and Healing
“When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” — African Proverb.
Recovery extends beyond the physical—it involves psychological, emotional, and communal restoration. The following steps and resources may assist in navigating this process:
1. Immediate Assistance
“When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” African Proverb
Accessing Immediate Support – Seek assistance through organizations providing emergency housing, financial relief, and essential supplies. FEMA, the Red Cross, and local agencies offer shelter, food, and financial aid to those displaced.
2. Mental and Emotional Well-Being
“Before healing others, heal thyself.” African Proverb
Experiencing loss and disruption can have long-term psychological effects. It is important to seek mental health support, whether through professional services, community healing spaces, or personal networks. ABPsi remains committed to offering culturally responsive resources that address the specific emotional and spiritual needs of Black communities.
3. Financial and Rebuilding Support
“A little rain each day will fill the rivers to overflowing.” African Proverb
Restoration requires access to economic resources. Various local, state, and federal programs offer financial assistance, housing assistance programs, including grants and low-interest loans. Accessing these programs is a critical step in rebuilding stability.
4. The Role of Community and Advocacy
“It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a community to rebuild a life.” — African Wisdom.
Social support is a key factor in recovery. Lean on trusted networks of family, friends, faith-based organizations, and community groups. Solidarity is one of the most powerful tools for healing and recovery. Advocacy is also crucial and necessary to ensure that historically marginalized communities receive equitable aid and assistance.
5. Self-Care and Long-Term Restoration
“If you heal the root, the tree will flourish.” — African Proverb
Sustained recovery requires attention to both physical and emotional well-being. Mindfulness practices, rest, and reconnecting with cultural and spiritual traditions can serve as important components of healing. Taking time to process grief and transition into new circumstances is essential.
