The wildfires in southern California blazed out of control fanned by ferocious Santa Ana winds that often hit 80 mph over extremely dry terrain. Embers the size of your fist blew for long distances further igniting the inferno. On January 7, 2025, the decimation of Pacific Palisades and Altadena (Eaton Fire) started and quicky decimated more than 15,000 structures and scorched 40,000 acres. It is the worst natural disaster in California’s history.

This is an example of nature not being wondrous but horribly destructive. Many of my friends lost everything in these fires and are grateful to have escaped with their lives and their pets.

Firefighters and the National Guards worked 12-hour shifts. The Rose Bowl was quickly converted in a staging area for the Eaton fire and housed 4,000 first responders.  Massive trailers and tents provided sleeping quarters, shower facilities, a laundry, a medical facility and physical therapy trailer. Two kitchens served thousands of meals a day.

And yet, while the fires blazed and with thousands of families displaced, Los Angeles responded with a amazing generosity showing community spirit and strength.

Friends and family took in those displaced. Air BnB, Hilton and other hotels offered free housing to fire victims. Animal shelters and stables were opened for pets, horses and other displaced animals. Laundromats offered firefighters free services. Restaurants and coffee shops served free food to those who lost their homes. The L.A. Pizza alliance formed in Chinatown to deliver thousands of pizzas to first responders, displaced individuals and volunteer workers. Bookstores opened their doors for coffee and a safe place for people to gather and share their stories.

Countless local non-profits organized donation centers and were over-whelmed with donations of clothing, blankets, supplies, pet food and water.

People and corporations from around the world donated to thousands of recipients such as United Way, Red Cross, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity and go fund me accounts.

Even as we grieve, this generosity fosters hope and strength as we navigate the long road ahead to recovery. This spirit of community, supporting people who lost so much,  is a demonstration of humanity’s best.