Salvation Army’s Pasadena Tabernacle on Front Lines of Emergency Relief

The Salvation Army’s Southern California Division has intensified its emergency response to the Eaton Canyon and Palisades fires, with officers and volunteers providing meals and spiritual care while preparing for long-term recovery assistance.

As of January 12, the organization has served over 2,500 meals and provided emotional and spiritual care to 476 individuals at American Red Cross emergency shelters and the Family Assistance Center in Pasadena.

With Red Flag Warnings back in effect today, Southern Californians joined in prayer at their local churches, including all 43 Salvation Army Corps (churches) that met to pray for help and remind each other where their hope comes from.

“It was somber. Today I sat with people who have lost everything but their hope. Their resolute faith was humbling,” said Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander for Southern California, who visited the Pasadena Tabernacle Corps.

Even as congregations gathered, Salvation Army officers (pastors) and volunteers continued preparing meals and providing support at evacuation centers, including the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center.

“I hugged families that experienced total loss. They’re numb, but so grateful they are alive and giving thanks to God for their temporary shelter and a supportive church family,” Col. Mike Dickinson shared.

The organization has assembled Emotional & Spiritual care teams to visit impacted neighborhoods once red flag warnings lift and relocation is permitted. These teams, comprised of Salvation Army pastors and volunteers, will provide comfort, food, and practical assistance to affected residents.

The Salvation Army is preparing to serve as a resource at Local Assistance Centers and Disaster Recovery Centers once activated. Due to logistical challenges of managing unsolicited donations, the organization currently accepts only financial donations through salarmy.us/socalfires.

However, gifts of gently-used items are always needed by Salvation Army thrift stores to support work in the local community.

Those interested in corporate and in-kind donations can contact Katherine Fukuda at Katherine.fukuda@usw.salvationarmy.org.