Update: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is continuing its efforts to assist those affected by the fires still burning in Southern California. The Church’s emergency response team is currently working with multiple local organizations to assess needs, both immediate and long-term, and provide resources. The Church is thankful its meetinghouses survived the fires and has offered them for staging areas, shelter and worship services of all faiths as needed.
At least 48 homes of Church members have been lost and approximately 750 members remain evacuated. Family Services counselors will also be sent to congregations in the affected areas to provide mental and emotional support.
Volunteer opportunities are limited at this time because of safety concerns caused by the fires. Members who wish to help are encouraged to donate to the Church’s humanitarian efforts or other reputable organizations and look for opportunities to help at JustServe.org.
Friday, January 10, 2025
As fires continue to burn in Southern California, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is organizing emergency support on various levels. Emergency supplies are being provided to those in need through local bishops’ storehouses and the Bishops’ Central Storehouse in Salt Lake City. Today, for example, 1,500 cases of bottled water are being delivered to areas most impacted by the wildfires.
Approximately 1,000 Latter-day Saints have been evacuated and are staying with relatives, friends, fellow Church members or other lodging. More than 30 Latter-day Saints’ homes have been destroyed. Church buildings have been made available for community staging and shelter.
All missionaries are safe and accounted for and are continuing their service. The Los Angeles Temple, which closed on January 8, reopened on January 9 and is operating on its regular schedule.
Local leaders deeply appreciate the outpouring of support and willingness to volunteer from so many. Until this is needed, those who wish to help can donate to the Church’s humanitarian efforts or offer volunteer support through local organizations.
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A man searches the rubble of his parents' home, destroyed during the Palisades Fire, in Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on January 9, 2025.Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty ImagesThursday, January 9, 2025
Elder Mark A. Bragg, North America West Area President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, issued the following statement:
Our hearts go out to all affected by the fires that continue to cause destruction in Southern California. As one who grew up and has deep roots in the area, I have a great love for the community. Our prayers are with those who have lost their homes and are displaced and for the first responders. We mourn with those who have experienced loss and ask for the Savior’s comforting spirit to be with them. We also express gratitude for the acts of faith and work sustaining those affected by this crisis.
At this time, the Church is mobilizing its resources. Everyone is encouraged to volunteer and make themselves available to assist those in need. The Church is committed to helping during this emergency and throughout the aftermath.
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The Palisades fire burns near homes in the Pacific Palisades on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Photo by Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/ Los Angeles Daily News via Getty ImagesBanner Image: Photo by Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images