Rising from the Ashes

In many parts of the world, the first week of the year ignites excitement and hope, but in Southern California, unprecedented wildfires unleashed terror, displacing families and reducing homes to rubble. Jewish synagogues and community centers were not spared from the fire’s grasp, but stories of hope and empowerment can still be found within the ashes. 

The wildfires, fueled by harsh Santa Ana winds, dry vegetation, and drought conditions created a destructive path through Southern California, including the Pacific Palisades and Altadena areas. Entire neighborhoods were engulfed in flames, forcing thousands to evacuate.  Alerts went out affecting over 100,000 residents at the height of the fire. Roads were flooded with families attempting to flee, while emergency shelters opened to accommodate those who had nowhere to go. Curfews were imposed in the fire zones to protect evacuated areas from looting and to ensure the safety of first responders battling the flames. 

Despite the rampant destruction, Hashem's love continues to shine through. When families walked through the ashes of their homes, symbols of strength emerged. In one instance, a menorah that once endured the Holocaust was found intact amidst the rubble. In another, a family returned to discover that the only surviving item was a mezuzah, standing as a testament to enduring faith and divine protection.

Judaism is a religion that revolves around community. That community becomes a lifeline in times of crisis no matter the sect in which one practices. This time was no different. As firefighters worked to contain the inferno, Jewish community leaders worked to ensure any family affected had a place to stay, food to eat, and clothes to wear. Food banks opened up almost immediately with hundreds signing up to volunteer. Along with urgent needs being taken care of, several charities have been set up to help rebuild. Some notable ones are https://charidy.com/fires or www.pjtc.net. Both of these links lead to campaigns from Pasadena communities that have been decimated and are in need of funds to help rebuild. At the time of publication, firefighters are making gains against the ongoing blaze as winds die down.