California Wildfires 2025
On January 7, 2025, wildfire activity began in Los Angeles County, California. Immediate reports indicate that this fire has caused substantial damage throughout LA County, making this event the largest fire disaster in the county's history. At the time of this writing, nearly 30,000 acres have been consumed by the blazes. One hundred eighty thousand people are currently displaced from their homes due to devastation or evacuation orders, and these fires continue to spread, causing additional destruction.
Since the onset of this disaster, the Global HOPE team has communicated with the Southern California and Nevada Conference Minister. The team will coordinate with ecumenical partners and a national network of voluntary organizations active in disasters (VOAD) as it shapes our long-term response.
We received confirmation that the fires destroyed the Altadena Community Church, United Church of Christ. They posted an update on their Facebook page.
The Global HOPE team is helping to connect Southern California and Nevada Conference staff, churches, and others affected by the wildfires with immediate resources while also preparing to support long-term recovery efforts.
As we continue to pray for and support those who experienced unimaginable loss, we invite you to support the UCC's recovery efforts in the following ways:
Donate to the UCC's California Wildfires 2025 Appeal below. Your gifts will support the community's immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts as we work with local communities to ensure an equitable approach to their long-term recovery. You can also mail a check payable to the United Church of Christ, PO Box 71957, Cleveland, OH 44194. Please be sure to note "California Wildfires 2025" in the memo section of your check. Our EIN: 34-1927041
Pray for those who have been impacted.
"A Prayer for Those in the Path of Fire" by Rev. Shari Prestemon
"Steadfast God, we watch in horror as fires rage in Southern California, and we pause to raise these humble petitions to you.
For all those forced to evacuate, who leave so much that is precious behind and know not what the future holds, surround them with your gentle presence in these hours of tortured worry and waiting.
For each beloved one who has already realized the unfathomable loss of everything familiar, of homes and schools and places of worship and so much more that was their anchor and community, receive their shock and overwhelming grief and hold them close in love.
For those called out to fight the flames, to rescue and to help, for those tasked with leading through the crisis, for hospitals that receive the wounded, and for all those extending care even while they themselves have suffered loss, grant the capacity to withstand all that overwhelms and wearies.
And in the uncertain days to come, draw near to all who weep and rage as they begin to sift through the rubble and ash left behind. Stir bits of hope amid despair. Lend strength when exhaustion overtakes them. May they be wrapped in a blanket of grace and healing woven by each act of compassion and generosity we now extend.
O God, in your wide and tender mercy, hear our fervent prayers. Amen."
You may also act by assembling Hygiene Kits and Cleanup Buckets. After a disaster, one of the biggest requests is for cleanup buckets and hygiene kits. UCC congregations interested in assembling hygiene kits and cleanup buckets are eligible for a matching grant through the Global HOPE office.
Thank you for your assistance in helping families and communities who are in great need in the aftermath of these hurricanes. Your heartfelt support will make a difference.