The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council expresses our concern and gratitude
to the courageous first responders working tirelessly to protect lives, homes and communities during these devastating fires.
Their tireless efforts are truly admirable in the face of great danger.
Our prayers and hearts go out to everyone impacted by these tragic events. We mourn with those who have experienced great loss and pray for a comforting spirit to be with them.
We are grateful for acts of faith and work sustaining those affected by this crisis. May everyone find strength and support in the days ahead.
We support reliable efforts to volunteer and assist those in need.
With heartfelt compassion,
The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council
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How to help Southern California wildfire victims
By Tyler Shaun Evains | tevains@scng.com, Mercedes Cannon-Tran | mcannontran@scng.com and Arianna Clay | aclay@scng.com
UPDATED: January 10, 2025 at 6:58 AM PST
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With thousands of Los Angeles County residents forced to evacuate as the Palisades fire, Eaton fire and the Hurst fire burn through the region, local organizations are mobilizing to help displaced residents.
Organizations such as the American Red Cross and Salvation Army are accepting online cash or check donations. While supply donations are welcome, cash is often more helpful because it could avoid storage issues and allow for quicker responses to immediate needs, Red Cross national hotline representative Angela Rodriguez said.
For map, see: Where the Eaton, Hurst and Palisades fires are burning in Southern California
For those looking to help emergency responders and residents, the organizations listed below are taking donations.
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California Fire Foundation The foundation is taking donations at cpf.salsalabs.org/cff-donation to provide aid and resources for both fire crews and residents.
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The American Red Cross The American Red Cross is accepting donations online. The organization plays a role in disaster recovery by providing emergency shelters, meals, medical care, and recovery planning services. To contribute, see redcross.org/donate/donation.html.
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Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is the official nonprofit of the Los Angeles City Fire Department. The organization supports over 3,000 local firefighters and paramedics by providing equipment and tools to help them fight wildfires effectively. Donations to the foundation can be made at supportlafd.org/donate/.
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Teladoc The virtual medical service Teledoc is providing free 24/7 virtual medical care from licensed healthcare professionals for any non-emergency illness by calling Teladoc Health directly at 855-225-5032. Additionally, those who may need help with authorization for non-narcotic drugs can also get assistance. The free services are for first responders, Southern California residents and anyone else who may be affected by the fires.
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The Salvation Army Donations are being accepted at socal.salvationarmy.org/southern-california/california-wildfires/ for wildfire relief efforts in Southern California. The Salvation Army has trained staff that is mobilizing to provide food, water, shelter and other needed resources.
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California Community Foundation The California Community Foundation is accepting donations at calfund.org/funds/wildfire-recovery-fund/ toward its Wildfire Recovery Fund to aid those affected by the fires. The nonprofit has provided more than $32 million in relief to victims of wildfire since 2003, according to the foundation’s website.
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Planet Fitness The gym chain is providing access to showers and its facilities at no cost to firefighters and residents displaced by fires. A gym membership is not required to access the facilities participating. For information and hours of operation, see planetfitness.com/gyms.
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Friends in Deed Friends in Deed is accepting online donations at friendsindeedpas.org/donate-to-friends-in-deed/ to support its efforts to help homeless and at-risk neighbors. This organization has set up an adults-only shelter at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pasadena, open Wednesday, Jan. 8, through Friday, Jan. 10, to provide aid and support to residents affected by the fires.
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LA Dream Center The Los Angeles-based community organization is serving as an evacuation center for residents forced to leave their homes due to the fires. The Dream Center is accepting credit- and debit-card donations in any amount online at dreamcenter.org. In a Jan. 7 Instagram post, the center said it has an ample supply of food, clothing and toiletries for those it expects to assist.
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LA Food Bank-Food Assistance after Fires, Earthquakes and other Disasters The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank provides year-round food assistance to those facing hunger and also acts as a first responder during natural disasters. They are currently accepting online donations to support their efforts.
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World Central Kitchen World Central Kitchen’s Relief Team is in Southern California providing water and sandwiches to first responders and families. World Central Kitchen Chef Corps members are on standby to make full meals to deliver when possible.
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SupplyBank.org Disaster Relief Fund State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and the California Department of Education have joined forces with the nonprofit SupplyBank.org to gather and distribute donations and emergency resources to school communities most affected by the wildfires. Donations can be made directly through the nonprofit’s website.
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LA Fire Donation Drive Hermosa Beach residents have organized a donation drive seeking clothing for all ages, new hygiene products, food, bottled water and baby formula, blankets, sleeping bags and bedding, books, puzzles, games, phone chargers and extension cords. Donation hours are from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 and Friday, Jan. 10; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 at Guidestone Church, 730 11th St., Hermosa Beach. Moving boxes, crates and banquet tables are also needed. Volunteers are welcome. For information, text Liz Tyndorf at 480-273-1597.
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American Martyrs The Manhattan Beach-based church is collecting donations Thursday, Jan. 9 and Friday, Jan. 10, at 1431 Deegan Pl., Manhattan Beach. Needs include clothing, including new or gently used shoes, hygiene product, non-perishable food and water, blankets, pillows and sleeping bags. They are also accepting books, puzzles, playing cards and games. Items should be dropped off by Friday morning. Donations will be delivered to Loyola High School.
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Project Angel Food Project Angel Food is looking for volunteers to deliver meals or work in the kitchen at Amped Kitchens, 230 West Ave. 26, Los Angeles. The kitchen is open Sunday through Friday. Volunteer shifts are from 8:15 a.m. to noon, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Information: volunteers@angelfood.org; 323-845-1816.
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Restoration Life Christian Church Restoration Life Church, 4234 W. 147th St., in Lawndale is opening its fellowship hall to receive supplies for first responders in the LA County fires. Cases of water, energy drinks, protein bars and snacks are needed. Contact Phil Burrow for more information: 305-951-2133
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Team Rubicon Volunteers are needed for the national disaster response organization Team Rubicon. Apply here.
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Project HOPE Health and humanitarian organization Project HOPE is assessing conditions in shelters, coordinating with government officials and local organizations and is prepared to support local shelters, health workers, and marginalized communities to help with shelter and mental health needs. Donate at projecthope.org/lafires
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This list will be updated as more information is available. Originally Published: January 8, 2025 at 1:23 PM PST
A Prayer for Victims of the Los Angeles Fires
by Rabbi Naomi Levy
God, our Rock and our Comfort
Hear our prayer.
Our hearts break for all those
Who have lost their homes in this deadly blaze.
The victims are in shock.
Life as they knew it,
All their treasured possessions,
Beloved heirlooms,
Touchstones for so many cherished memories
Were swept away in an instant.
Their sense of place and home
Their safety and stability have been shaken.
Help us, God, to anchor them,
To shelter, support and steady them with love
As the numbness wears off,
The enormity of the loss sets in
And the work before them begins.
Be with them, God,
Be their strength and their comfort,
Shield them from despair,
Let them know You are near.
Fill them with the courage they will need to begin again.
Bless the firefighters and first responders, God,
And watch over them
As they put their own lives at risk
To protect our beloved city.
Work through us, God,
Transform our helplessness into action,
Inspire us with the determination
And the perseverance we will need
To bring devastated neighborhoods back to life.
Fill us all with the vision of the new days that lie ahead,
A dream of our city restored.
Let Jeremiah’s prophecy of hope enter every heart and soul:
“The city shall be rebuilt upon its ruins!”
So may it be,
And let us say, Amen
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Join Us in
Community Service
Get involved with The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council and make a difference in the community.
Join us on April 26, 2025, for Community Service Day. With over 40 projects available, there's a way for everyone to contribute.
We are looking for sponsors to support our cause and help us create a positive impact. Together, we can build a stronger, more united community.
GHBIC donated a snowflake on Main St to Light a Light of Love, Waymakers event.
How do you join the Interfaith Council?
Save the Dates:
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THANKSGIVING PROGRAM - NOV 17, 2024 This special event transcends religious boundaries, welcoming individuals from all faith traditions and walks of life to join in a spirit of harmony and appreciation.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY - APRIL 26, 2025 Be a part of the profound impact that collective action can have on our neighborhoods, our cities, and our world. communityserviceday.org
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BLESSINGS OF THE WAVES - SEPT 7, 2025 Whether you're a seasoned surfer, a beach enthusiast, or simply someone who finds solace in the ocean's embrace, this event welcomes all with open arms.
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COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS - bi-monthly Participate in facilitated discussions that tackle challenging topics with courage and respect, allowing us to bridge divides and build bridges of understanding.
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Mark your calendars and join in to
build bridges in the community.
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Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council Statement on the Israel - Gaza war.
The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council grieves for the devastating loss of life in the Middle East. We strongly condemn the Hamas attack on Israelis as an act of terror to target innocent people, young and old. As the ensuing violence continues, we affirm that all human life is equally precious and mourn the loss of innocent lives of Palestinians and Israelis in Israel and Gaza.
We are intensely saddened for the victims of this conflict and the loathsome atrocities. We invite people of faith to join in prayer for an immediate end to the violence. We express sorrow and solidarity with communities of all faiths, ethnicities, and nationalities currently experiencing pain. We are deeply concerned about the impact of this violence on Jewish, Muslim, and Arab-American communities across the United States.
The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is committed to working together with all groups in fighting against discrimination and hate. As people of faith in God, we call upon all to show kindness and respect in resolving conflicts.
Council Meetings are on the LAST Tuesday of every month.
Meet and greet at 8:15 am.
The council meeting starts at 8:30 am.
Huntington Beach City Hall, Basement Room B8.
These meetings are open to the public and all are welcome to come and get involved.
Noted speakers are invited to give special presentations at the beginning of each meeting.
Mailing address: 7641 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council (GHBIC) is a gathering of representatives of faith based communities and individuals dedicated to understanding, respecting, promoting and celebrating spiritual and cultural diversity.
Jynene Johnson is grateful to be a part of the interfaith council. She is a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She works with her husband in property management and as an Israeli tour director. Jynene is a former professional dancer and choreographer. She is the mother of 6 children and 18 grandchildren. Currently, her passion is serving in the community bringing people together from all faiths.
Regular Council Meetings are the LAST Tuesday of every month at 8:30 am in person and on Zoom. They are open to the public. Please email us at info@ghbic.org for the monthly link. We’d love to meet you and have you get involved…