The 5th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church urgently seeks your support for our brothers and sisters affected by the devastating wildfires ravaging Southern California.
Current Situation
As of January 10, 2025:
Many of you have seen the apocalyptic images of Southern California on fire over the last few days. Over 300,000 people have been under evacuation orders. The dry conditions and hurricane-force winds combined have destroyed over 10,000 structures. Even now, people are still receiving new evacuation orders as dedicated firefighters work tirelessly to contain burning embers, hoping that new fires will not start. We will remain in high fire danger until we get some significant rain.
The Pastors and members of First AME (Pasadena), Brown Memorial (Pasadena), Bethel (Monrovia), First AME Val Verde (Castaic), and St. John Holy Trinity (Sun Village) are presently impacted. Rev. Al Washington, an associate minister at First AME Church of Los Angeles, lost his wife and their home. We are aware of over 54 members of the AME Church whose homes have been destroyed. Forty-nine of them are members of First AME Church of Pasadena. Homicide investigators are still being sent out to investigate when welfare checks reveal human remains. Many people still in their homes have been without power for days.
As members and friends of the AME Church, we are all hurting. Across the Connection, many of you know the people whose homes have been lost and whose lives have been turned upside down during these first few weeks of 2025. Inside the Fifth Episcopal District, we are working to connect all needs with supplies so that nobody feels they must bear their burdens alone.
How You Can Help
Your financial support is crucial in providing immediate relief and long-term recovery assistance. Your donations will help us:
- Provide temporary housing for displaced families
- Supply essential items such as food, water, and clothing
- Offer mental health support and counseling services
- Assist with long-term rebuilding efforts
The prayers of the righteous availeth much. Pray for rain. Pray for healing and restoration. Pray for power and resources of every kind.
Ways to Donate
- Mail: Send checks payable to the 5th Episcopal District with the memo: Disaster Relief. 4519 Admiralty Way, Suite 205, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
- Online: Zelle to 5thedwms@gmail.com
- In person at the upcoming WMS Executive Board Meeting. The 5th District WMS, in collaboration with the Connectional WMS, is hosting a gift card drive.
No matter the size, every contribution makes a difference in the lives of those affected by this disaster.
Our Commitment
The 5th Episcopal District is working tirelessly alongside local authorities and relief organizations to ensure that every dollar donated goes directly to those in need. We are committed to transparency and will provide regular updates on our relief efforts.
In these challenging times, we are reminded of the strength of our community and the power of our collective faith. Together, we can help our brothers and sisters rebuild their lives and emerge stronger from this crisis.
Thank you for your prayers, generosity, and support.
In faith and service,
Bishop Francine A. Brookins
Supervisor Miriam J. Burnett, MD MPH