AS THE PALISADES AND Eaton wildfires swept through Los Angeles County in January, the start of 2025 took a devastating turn—lives were lost, homes reduced to ashes and tens of thousands left without work. Amid this tragedy, survivors have experienced the Lord’s comfort and provision through the generosity of others—including from the Help LA Fund, established The Orange Catholic Foundation (OCF) with the leadership of Bishop Kevin Vann and in partnership with the Diocese of Orange.
To date, 262 families and individuals have found a lifeline of hope through grants from the Help LA Fund, including a mother who lost her home while caring for a special needs child and a domestic violence survivor raising her family on a nanny’s salary.
Also, among those helped are families from St. Andrew Catholic School in Pasadena, who have received tuition assistance to ease the financial burden of Catholic education as they rebuild their lives.
Lana, a St. Andrew Catholic School eighth grader, said her heart instantly dropped when she first returned to her Altadena neighborhood after the fires.
“My house was the only one standing on the entire block,” she said. “I was in tears, thanking God that He protected my family.”
Although their family home remains intact, their garage was destroyed, and they’ve been told it could take six months to a year before they can move back in.
In a statement, the school conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the $35,500 in tuition assistance dropped off during Catholic Schools Week, calling it a “true blessing” that brings hope and stability, ensuring students can continue their Catholic education despite the challenges they are facing. Further assistance was provided to other St. Andrew Catholic School students after the initial check was delivered.
In the coming days, weeks and months, it’s expected many more grant requests will be submitted to OCF by Los Angeles parish pastors who are requesting help for the unique needs of their parishioners. Deacon Bernie Ocampo, a philanthropy officer for The Orange Catholic Foundation, and his wife, Pamela, have been volunteering their time to help with various ministries in Altadena.
He emphasized that everyone is doing their best, working tirelessly to assist the thousands of displaced Catholic families, many of whom have also lost their source of income.
However, it’s going to take time and a lot of financial support to get everyone back on their feet. Here’s the breakdown: with average rent at about $2,500, plus another $2,500 for food and living expenses, that totals $5,000 a month—amounting to $60,000 a year to support just one family.
Helping doesn’t have to feel overwhelming if we follow Jesus’ example—caring for one person, one soul at a time.
What sets the Help LA Fund apart from other collaborative efforts is The Orange Catholic Foundation’s commitment to the principle of subsidiarity. The OCF grants committee and staff are working hand-in-hand with LA parish pastors and staff to make a direct impact. Grants amounting to approximately $570,000 have received approval.
To make a difference for more families, give to the Help LA Fund today at OrangeCatholicFoundation.org. OCF’s philanthropy team can help you turn stocks, real estate, business donations or IRA distributions into vital aid for those in need. Contact (714) 282-3021 or [email protected]