CityServe Organizes Massive Support for Displaced LA Residents

CityServe remains committed to supporting individuals and families displaced by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. Through its ongoing relief efforts, the organization is uniting the Bakersfield community to provide essential supplies and assistance to those in need. By rallying local volunteers, businesses, and donors, CityServe is ensuring that displaced residents have access to necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. Their mission goes beyond immediate relief, fostering a spirit of compassion and collective action to help wildfire survivors rebuild their lives.

As part of the ongoing relief efforts for Los Angeles wildfire victims, Chick-fil-A is generously providing lunch for volunteers dedicating their time to the cause. CityServe is focused on delivering critical supplies, including food, hygiene products, and clothing, to individuals and families who have been displaced by the fires. The organization has already raised approximately $3 million worth of essential goods to support wildfire survivors and is continuing to expand its efforts. To further aid those in need, CityServe is planning additional volunteer days, ensuring that more people receive the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.

In the wake of the devastating wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area, CityServe called on the community for support, and the response was overwhelming. More than 40 dedicated volunteers stepped up to help, including Victoria and Allen Shockley, a retired couple eager to make a difference. Together, they worked tirelessly to sort and fold 20 pallets of brand-new clothing, ensuring that those impacted by the fires would have access to much-needed apparel. Their efforts, along with the collective support of the community, reflect a shared commitment to providing comfort and relief to wildfire survivors during this challenging time.

Victoria Shockley, one of the dedicated volunteers, expressed the deep sense of fulfillment she felt while assisting with the relief efforts. As she carefully folded each piece of clothing, she reflected on the impact of her actions, knowing that her work was directly helping those in need. “Just to see as I’m folding, I’m giving back,” she shared. “We’ve got sizes ranging from small all the way up to triple XL,” ensuring that wildfire survivors of all backgrounds receive the clothing they need.

Victoria and her husband weren’t the only ones moved to help. Addie Melendez, another volunteer, joined the efforts alongside her sister, motivated by a strong desire to contribute in a meaningful way. For Melendez, volunteering not only provided much-needed assistance to displaced families but also gave her a sense of peace and purpose. “It brings joy to me; it brings more peace in my life because I know there are so many people in need,” she explained. “There are a lot of people just sitting at home, not helping, so it feels good to be the helping hand that provides for others.”

Their stories highlight the power of community support and the difference that even small acts of kindness can make in times of crisis.

Cherese Grell, the director of CityServe, shared her enthusiasm about the incredible partnerships that are making a significant impact in the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires. She highlighted the generous support from Chick-fil-A, which is providing meals for volunteers, and from Jockey, which has donated clothing to those who have lost essential items. Grell explained the dire situation many evacuees are facing, noting that many people were forced to leave their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs. “People left their homes with just the clothes on their back,” she said, emphasizing that survivors are now struggling to find shelter, whether it’s with family members, in homeless shelters, or elsewhere. “They don’t have anywhere to store these essentials once they receive them.”

In addition to providing critical supplies such as food, water, hygiene products, and clothing, CityServe is also focusing on gathering items that will help evacuees with more practical needs, such as suitcases to store their belongings and pet supplies to care for their animals. “Believe it or not, some of it is dog food and cat food,” Grell shared, underscoring the importance of taking care of the whole family, including pets, during such a challenging time.

So far, CityServe has raised around $3 million worth of essential goods and continues to mobilize efforts with the community to ensure these items reach those who need them most. The organization is delivering these supplies to churches and homeless shelters, where many of the displaced individuals are seeking refuge.

Volunteer Victoria Shockley, reflecting on the broader impact of these efforts, stated, “A little bit amounts to a lot, and when the community comes together, that’s what we do.” Her words capture the spirit of unity and compassion driving the relief efforts.

For anyone looking to help, CityServe is actively accepting donations to continue providing relief for those affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles. The community’s ongoing support is essential in helping those displaced rebuild their lives during this difficult time.