{"id":17580,"date":"2025-01-12T13:00:10","date_gmt":"2025-01-12T18:00:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/angatpangasinan.com\/alps\/?p=17580"},"modified":"2025-01-14T00:06:47","modified_gmt":"2025-01-14T05:06:47","slug":"help-socal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/angatpangasinan.com\/alps\/help-socal\/","title":{"rendered":"Call for Compassion and Unity in Supporting Victims and Survivors of Southern California Wildfire"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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NaFFAA Calls for Compassion and Unity in Supporting Southern California Wildfire Victims<\/b><\/h2>

Washington, D.C.\u2014 <\/b>The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) expresses its profound sympathy for the victims of the recent wildfires devastating Southern California. The Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires have collectively scorched over 36,000 acres, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and the destruction of more than 10,000 structures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

These catastrophic events have forced nearly 180,000 residents to evacuate, including many Filipino Americans who reside in the affected areas. The emotional and economic toll on our community is immense, with families displaced and livelihoods disrupted.<\/span><\/p>

Ryan Namata<\/b>,<\/span> NaFFAA National President<\/b>, issued a call to action:<\/span>
<\/span>“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by these devastating events. In times like these, the Filipino American community has always stepped forward with compassion and strength. This is our moment to come together\u2014whether through donations, volunteering, or simply offering support\u2014to help those in need rebuild their lives.”<\/span><\/p>

Filipino American-owned businesses have been at the forefront of relief efforts. Notably, community grocers in California have launched initiatives to provide food, supplies, and aid to wildfire victims. These inspiring actions highlight the deep-seated spirit of bayanihan, the Filipino tradition of communal unity and support.<\/span><\/p>

NaFFAA National Chair Mariela Fletcher<\/b> reflected on the resilience and generosity of the community:<\/span>
<\/span>“In the face of overwhelming loss, our compassion shines brightest. Let us not only grieve with those impacted but also stand with them in recovery. Together, we can transform this tragedy into an opportunity to demonstrate the enduring strength of our community and our shared humanity.”<\/span><\/p>

Noel Omega, NaFFAA Greater Los Angeles Region President<\/b>, added:<\/span>
<\/span>“In times like this, we witness the true strength of our Filipino American community. Together, we can provide hope, help, and healing to those who need it most.”<\/span><\/p>

Impact on Filipino Americans<\/b><\/h3>

The wildfires have brought both immediate and long-term challenges to Filipino Americans. With many displaced, families are grappling with the emotional and economic toll of the crisis. This underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to provide relief, rebuild lives, and address the vulnerabilities exposed by this disaster.<\/span><\/p>

How to Help<\/b><\/h3>

NaFFAA encourages donations to the following organizations providing direct relief to wildfire victims:<\/span><\/p>

  1. American Red Cross<\/b>