As we entered 2025 with fresh hopes and aspirations, we are once again reminded of life’s unpredictability. The recent historic firestorms in Los Angeles County have devastated countless lives, leaving behind a trail of heartbreak, despair, and unimaginable loss. For 35 years, Los Angeles has been my family’s home, and witnessing the destruction of communities in Altadena, Pasadena, and Sylmar is profoundly personal.
The Eaton and Sylmar Fires have hit Black women, their families, and their communities especially hard. Entire lives have been uprooted, homes, belongings, and even lives lost. The fury and scale of these fires are unprecedented. As the wife of a 36-year veteran firefighter for Los Angeles County and with my own experience in emergency disaster response as a flight attendant and SBA disaster support professional, I have witnessed devastation before, but it never gets easier.
True to our mission, the International Black Women’s Public Policy Institute (IBWPPI) is stepping up during this crisis. We are collaborating with The California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute, Black Pastors, and Leaders of other non-profits organizations and Black Businesses to provide direct support to those most affected. Our “Boots on the Ground Program,” launched in 2010, allows us to engage directly with severely impacted communities through a trusted network of advocates on the ground.
We know that recovery will take months and maybe years, therefore, we are committed to the long road ahead for families.
In the past, this program has delivered tangible, life-changing outcomes for families in need, and we aim to replicate that success. With your support, our goal is to provide targeted assistance to twenty-five families, which can be up to one hundred individuals over the next year helping them rebuild their lives and recover with dignity.
Donate
Your financial contribution is critical to ensuring immediate and sustained relief for these families. No amount is too small or too big because every dollar makes a difference. Donate today to the IBWPPI-Altadena and Hurst Fire Fund. Black Women’
Sponsor a Family
Support an entire family by contributing to their specific needs, including boots for recovery work, temporary housing assistance, or monetary relief.
Corporate and Community Partnerships
We invite businesses and community organizations to join us as partners in this critical work. Whether through financial sponsorships, donated resources, or employee volunteer programs, your involvement can significantly increase our impact.
Spread the Word
Share this appeal with your networks. Raising awareness is a powerful way to extend the reach of our efforts.
All funds raised will go directly toward supporting affected families. We will provide regular updates on the progress of this initiative so you can see the impact of your generosity in real time.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need us most. Thank you for your compassion, commitment, and unwavering support.