Filipino American fire victims who lost their homes and properties turned to fund-raising platform GoFundMe to alleviate their situation in the ongoing fires in Los Angeles, California.
In a list compiled by SoCal Filipinos, a number of beleaguered Filipinos in Southern California also posted in Facebook and Instagram.
SoCal Filipinos :
“Our community in Southern California is going through a lot right now. We’ve seen our community lose their homes, being displaced but we’re also seeing incredible acts of kindness. People are opening their homes, donating supplies, and doing whatever they can to support those in need.
“But we want to take a moment to ask—how are you doing?
“If you need a space to vent, please don’t hesitate to comment, send a message, or reach out to a friend. We’re here to listen, and you don’t have to go through this alone.
“It’s so important that we take care of ourselves and each other—especially our mental health—during these challenging times.
“We’ll keep sharing resources, volunteer opportunities, and more to help. And yes, we’ll sprinkle in some lighthearted posts too, just to give us a little break before we get back to our usual content.
“Together, we’re LA Strong.
#socalfilipinos #lastrong #iloveLA.”
Consequently, about a hundred friends, families and/or beneficiaries who created GoFundMe accounts submitted their names and links to the organization.
As of noon of January 14, a total of 101 names and links were listed in the spreadsheet of Displaced Filipino Families Affected
by the LA Fires with GoFundMe Links with Instagram: @socalfilipinos; info@socalfilipinos.org.
Aside from the names of persons or families asking for help and their GoFundMe links, in the list are the targeted amount needed by the family, amount raised and percentage of amount raised.
Among the highest targeted amount were for $150 K. 125K, 110K and 100K each. Many were able to get even more than their goals as almost quadruple their aim getting 450 percent, with some so far are pledged with 159 percent,117 percent, 107 percent or 101 percent of their targets.
And for the heroic efforts of firefighters and first responders, SoCal Filipinos posted:
“To the courageous firefighters and first responders, including those who have come from other countries to lend a hand, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your unwavering bravery and selfless sacrifice during this critical time are nothing short of heroic. You are truly the pillars of strength we rely on, and we are profoundly thankful for your tireless efforts.
“To the countless volunteers who have stepped up to offer support, whether through donations, organizing relief efforts, or simply providing a helping hand or kind word, we are deeply moved by your compassion. Your collective spirit of generosity and unity serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of our community. In times of crisis, it is your hearts and actions that make all the difference.
“On behalf of the SoCal Filipinos community, Maraming Salamat—thank you so much.
Son of famous Filipino actor Piolo Pascual, son Inigo Pascual also turned to social media Instagram to say, “nagpasalamat sa mga taong nagpakita ng concern sa kanya dahil sa LA Fire.” (I am thankful to all those who showed their concern for me due to LA fire.”)
“Thanks to everyone that’s checked in. Haven’t been able to respond to all the messages. My family evacuated where we live last night and everyone is safe including our furry fam members.
“Praying and claiming for this to end soon. Sending prayers to everyone in LA, esp to those who lost their homes.
“If you’re in LA, please stay alert: the Fires just seem to pop out of nowhere…”
IG inigopascual
ABS-CBN Foundation International partnered with Seafood City to give their share to the victims of the Los Angeles fire. Those who wish to help through them can go to
Southern California Fires Relief Fund: Urgent Support Needed | ABS-CBN Foundation International
Southern California Fires Relief Fund: Urgent Support Needed | ABS-CBN Foundation International
A donation center was also established at the Santa Anita race track to accommodate the donations that poured in from all over California and beyond that organizers are appealing for additional volunteers, not too much for food, materials and similar donations as they are already overwhelmed with material donations.
By late Friday, the city of Pasadena was redirecting donations to Santa Anita Park in nearby Arcadia after a call for donations at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl stadium led to a surge of support.
Jollibee also gave free food for those victims of the raging LA wildfires. Crew members of the Pinoy fast food chain were seen distributing to many people of different colors and race who were lining up a long table full of Jollibee meals to receive a meal. They proved that the bayanihan spirit lives on.
